Trump Claims Iran Nuclear Deal Near, Pope Urged on Protester Executions

Trump Claims Breakthrough in Iran Nuclear Talks

Former President Donald Trump stated that a deal with Iran regarding its nuclear program is close to being finalized. He expressed confidence that Iran has agreed not to pursue nuclear weapons.

Trump suggested this agreement could lead to lower oil prices and prevent a potential global catastrophe. He also indicated that the ongoing negotiations are going well and might be announced soon.

Pope Urged to Address Iran’s Human Rights Abuses

Trump directly addressed the Pope, urging him to focus on Iran’s actions. Specifically, he highlighted Iran’s plan to execute four more protesters, including a woman. Trump emphasized that allowing such actions and letting Iran obtain nuclear weapons would be catastrophic for the world.

“I want him to preach the gospel. I’m all about the gospel,” Trump said.

“But I also know that you cannot let a certain country, which is a very mean-spirited country, have a nuclear weapon.” He added, “If they did, they would use it. And I think they’d used it quickly and they would kill.”

Skepticism Over Iran Deal Claims

Analysts expressed caution regarding Trump’s claims about the Iran nuclear deal. Peter Baker, chief White House correspondent for The New York Times, noted that Iran has long resisted giving up its right to nuclear energy. He questioned whether Iran has truly abandoned its pursuit of nuclear weapons, especially given its past positions.

David Ignatius of The Washington Post suggested that Trump’s statement about Iran agreeing to no nuclear weapons might refer to Iran abandoning its insistence on the right to enrich uranium permanently. He proposed a potential solution could involve a shared regional enrichment consortium. Ignatius also linked the progress in U.S.-Iran negotiations to a potential ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon.

Lebanon Ceasefire and Sovereignty Hopes

The potential for a ceasefire in Lebanon was also discussed, with Iran reportedly viewing it as a precondition for resolving disputes with the U.S. This development is seen as positive for reinforcing U.S.-Iran negotiations and giving Lebanon a chance to reassert its sovereignty. Lebanon’s current leadership, including President Aoun, is reportedly ready to talk directly with Israel.

Trump indicated he might host a meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Lebanese President Aoun at the White House. This would allow Israel to end its bombardment of southern Lebanon, and importantly, allow Lebanon to regain control of its country, which has been influenced by Hezbollah for decades. The Lebanese army, despite potential sympathies for Hezbollah among its Shiite soldiers, is seen as a positive force in this push for sovereignty.

Critique of NATO and Economic Policies

Trump also voiced criticism of NATO, suggesting the alliance has not been supportive of the U.S. when needed. He contrasted this with past U.S. support for European nations. He also highlighted his economic policies, such as no taxes on tips and overtime, as proof that the Republican Party supports the working class.

He contrasted his policies with those of the Democratic Party, which he characterized as wanting to tax everyone and allow men to compete in women’s sports. Trump asserted that his policies have led to a strong economy and increased financial returns for citizens.

Source: Trump on feud with the pope: 'I'm all about the Gospel' (YouTube)