Trump Signals Preference for Diplomacy With Iran Amid Military Tensions
WASHINGTON – February 25, 2026
US President Donald Trump told Congress that he prefers a diplomatic solution with Iran, even as he warned that the United States could take military action if necessary.
During his annual State of the Union address to a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives, Trump adopted a strong tone against Tehran. He accused Iran of attempting to rebuild its nuclear program after US strikes last year targeted key sites.
Claims Over Nuclear Program
Trump stated that US forces had “wiped out” Iran’s nuclear facilities. However, several experts have questioned that claim and suggested the damage may not have fully ended Iran’s capabilities.
About 90 minutes into his record-length speech, Trump raised the possibility of further military action. He alleged that Iran seeks to develop missiles capable of reaching the US mainland.
“We are in negotiations with them,” Trump said. “They want to make a deal, but we have not heard the clear words: ‘We will never have a nuclear weapon.’”
Diplomacy as Preferred Option
Despite his sharp criticism, Trump stressed that diplomacy remains his preferred path. He said he wants to resolve the dispute through negotiations rather than conflict.
At the same time, he reaffirmed his firm position against Iran obtaining nuclear weapons. Calling Iran “the world’s number one sponsor of terror,” Trump declared that he would never allow Tehran to develop such arms.
His remarks come amid increased US military deployments in the region, which have raised tensions between Washington and Tehran.
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