Donald Trump said the United States could be “better off” without reaching a deal with Iran, while declaring an end to hostilities and extending a ceasefire that began on 7 April 2026.
In remarks delivered in Florida, Trump expressed frustration with Iran’s latest negotiating position and signalled a tougher stance if talks fail. He also confirmed $8.6 billion in military support for US allies in the Middle East and the withdrawal of 5,000 troops from Germany.
Strategic tensions and diplomatic pressure
Trump said he was dissatisfied with Iran’s response in ongoing negotiations, suggesting Washington may abandon efforts if terms are not met.
“Honestly, we might be better off not making a deal at all,” he said, adding that the situation could not continue indefinitely.
He reiterated that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons, warning they could be used against Israel, the wider Middle East and potentially Europe. He also suggested the US could take military action if no agreement is reached, although he said a deal remained preferable.
“They are not moving with the kind of agreement we need. We will finish this properly. We are not leaving early,” he said.
Trump on Iran:
— Clash Report (@clashreport) May 1, 2026
They are not coming through with the kind of deal that we have to have.
We are going to get this thing done properly; we are not going to leave early. pic.twitter.com/z9MhGff3dY
‘Treasonous’ claims over war outcome
Trump also described as “treasonous” suggestions that the US is not winning its conflict with Iran, despite earlier informing Congress that hostilities had ended.
“We see the radical left saying, ‘We’re not winning’. They have no army left. It’s unbelievable. I think it’s treasonous,” he said.
In a letter to Congress, Trump confirmed that hostilities, which began on 28 February 2026, had ceased and that the two-week ceasefire ordered on 7 April had been extended. He said no exchanges of fire had taken place since then.
Under US law, the president must end military operations within 60 days or seek congressional approval, with a possible 30-day extension under specific conditions.
Military operations and regional pressure points
Trump referred to a recent US naval operation involving the seizure of an Iranian cargo vessel, describing it as necessary enforcement of a maritime blockade. Iranian authorities had previously condemned the incident as piracy and warned of retaliation.
He also pointed to US military action earlier this year in Venezuela, calling it one of the most significant operations in history, while avoiding declaring outright victory in Iran.
Despite US claims of weakening Iran’s naval capabilities, Tehran retains leverage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route.
Trump additionally made remarks suggesting potential future action involving Cuba, although he did not provide specifics.
Military aid and Germany troop withdrawal
The US State Department has approved $8.6 billion in military sales to regional allies, including Patriot missile systems and APKWS equipment for Israel, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates.
The announcement comes as the ceasefire with Iran holds.
At the same time, Trump confirmed the withdrawal of 5,000 US troops from Germany, amid tensions with Chancellor Friedrich Merz over policy differences related to Iran.
The move forms part of a broader strategic recalibration by Washington, as it seeks to reinforce its military posture in the Middle East while pressing for a more hardline approach towards Tehran.
Source: protothema.gr