President Donald Trump is calling out Iran for dragging its feet in ongoing nuclear negotiations, accusing the regime of deliberately stalling progress in hopes of manipulating a weaker U.S. position—something he says won’t work this time around.
“They’re slow-walking the talks because they’re used to dealing with stupid people,” Trump told reporters during a meeting with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele at the White House. “That’s not who they’re dealing with anymore.”
Trump made it clear that the United States will not tolerate delays or deception from Tehran. He reaffirmed his long-standing position: Iran must abandon any ambitions of acquiring nuclear weapons, or face the consequences.
“Iran has to get rid of the concept of a nuclear weapon,” he said firmly. “They cannot have one. That’s the bottom line.”
Trump pointed to his previous term in office, when Iran’s economy was choked off by heavy sanctions and its regional aggression was largely subdued. He emphasized that under his leadership, Tehran faced unprecedented pressure—and warned that the U.S. is prepared to act decisively again if necessary.
“If they think they can stall us like they’ve done in the past, they’re making a grave mistake,” Trump said. “They’re not dealing with the Obama administration anymore. They’re not dealing with amateurs.”
The comments come just ahead of a second round of U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations scheduled to take place in Rome. While administration officials remain open to diplomatic solutions, Trump has expressed deep skepticism about Iran’s motives, suggesting that the regime is using talks as cover to continue advancing its nuclear program behind the scenes.
National security advisors have noted a troubling uptick in Iran’s uranium enrichment activities, with levels now approaching weapons-grade thresholds. Intelligence reports also suggest increased activity at previously dormant nuclear sites—raising alarms about the regime’s true intentions.
Trump’s message was blunt: diplomacy will be pursued, but American strength is not negotiable.
“All options remain on the table,” he said. “We will not allow a radical regime that chants ‘Death to America’ to get its hands on nuclear weapons. That’s not going to happen under my watch.”
While the Biden-era dealmaking is remembered for concessions and unenforceable promises, Trump is setting a new standard—one where peace is earned through strength, not weakness.
The President’s remarks drew praise from allies and military officials who believe Iran’s only path to compliance is through pressure backed by force. With talks approaching, the world is watching to see whether Tehran takes the warning seriously—or continues to test a president who has proven he’s willing to act.
.@POTUS: “Iran has to get rid of the concept of a nuclear weapon. They cannot have a nuclear weapon… I think they’re tapping us along because they were so used to dealing with stupid people in this country.” pic.twitter.com/tfMQXo1GGu
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) April 14, 2025