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U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday that the United States has not made a "final decision" on whether to launch a military attack against Iran, but warned that force remains on the table if Tehran refuses to abandon its nuclear ambitions.
"I'd love not to use" the military against Iran, Trump told reporters outside the White House before departing for Texas, "but sometimes you have to."
The remarks came amid mounting frustration from the administration over the pace and posture of negotiations with Tehran over its nuclear program. "We're not thrilled with the way they're negotiating," Trump said, adding bluntly: "They cannot have nuclear weapons."
Despite the sharp rhetoric, Trump indicated he still prefers a negotiated outcome and said further talks were expected Friday. A massive U.S. military buildup in the region has provided the backdrop for this week's discussions over Iran's nuclear activities.
In a sign that mediation efforts are intensifying, Oman dispatched its foreign minister to Washington on Friday for discussions with Vice President JD Vance, according to a source familiar with the matter. Oman has served as a longtime intermediary between Washington and Tehran, a role it has played in various diplomatic episodes stretching back decades.
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In a separate set of remarks to reporters, Trump turned his attention to Cuba, saying the government in Havana is engaged in discussions with Washington.
"Maybe we will have a friendly takeover," Trump said, describing the island nation as being in dire straits. "They are in big trouble. They have no money. They don't have anything right now."
Trump also noted that many Cuban nationals living in the United States who wish to return to the island are "happy with what is going on right now," though he did not elaborate on the specifics of any negotiations or what a so-called takeover might entail.
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