Iran talks entered a decisive phase as U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker warned that Tehran now faces a clear choice following direct demands from President Donald Trump. Negotiations are underway as U.S. naval forces patrol the region and the administration signals that patience is limited.
Speaking Saturday on “The Big Weekend Show,” Whitaker said President Trump has drawn firm lines for Iran’s leadership. “The president has been very clear on Iran… you can’t have a nuclear weapon, and you need to stop killing protesters in your streets,” Whitaker said. “That’s a pretty clear red line.”
Whitaker described the U.S. naval presence near Iran as both a deterrent and an opportunity for de-escalation. He referred to the force as an “armada that is sitting off the coast of Iran” and said it serves as an “off ramp” if Iranian leaders choose a different path. According to Whitaker, Iran could ease tensions “very easily and simply” by abandoning its nuclear ambitions and halting violent crackdowns on internal protests.
“We’ll see. The ball is in their court,” Whitaker said. “But you know, President Trump is not going to be forever patient on this.” He stressed that the administration is not seeking to destabilize Iran, despite reports suggesting possible military options.
President Trump confirmed Saturday that negotiations with Tehran are taking place and said he believes Iran is negotiating “seriously.” He added that he hopes an “acceptable” agreement can be reached.
Tensions escalated further Sunday when Iran’s parliamentary speaker declared all European Union militaries to be terrorist organizations. The statement followed the EU’s designation of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terror group over its response to nationwide protests.
The move has raised concerns about potential retaliation against NATO allies, particularly after Operation Midnight Hammer targeted Iranian nuclear facilities in June.
