Trump Says Iran Seeks Deal as US Considers Next Steps

President Donald Trump shared his views on the evolving situation with Iran, indicating that Tehran is more eager than ever to reach a negotiated agreement. During a phone interview with Axios on November 1, 2026, Trump explained that although the United States has significantly weakened Iran’s financial and military capabilities, Washington is not rushing to make a decision about resuming military operations.

Trump emphasized that the US had dealt a major blow to Iran's economy. "We crippled them financially. They have no money, no gasoline and their people are getting very tired of it," he said. Despite this, he expressed willingness to allow more time for diplomacy before determining the next steps.

Meanwhile, Qatari mediators have been actively involved in facilitating talks between the two countries. Axios reported that Qatar has drafted a proposal outlining a sequence of confidence-building measures to help restart direct negotiations. Ali al-Thawadi, a Qatari mediator, traveled to Tehran on Monday to continue discussions on this draft agreement. A diplomat familiar with the negotiations noted that progress was underway and both Washington and Tehran were reviewing the proposal.

Trump confirmed ongoing communication with Iranian officials, though he acknowledged the process might be slow. "We are talking to them. It’s going fine," he said, adding that Iran appears less urgent in its approach than anticipated but still wants to reach a deal more than ever before.

Following the interview, Trump posted on Truth Social linking the sharp decline in oil prices to expectations of a peaceful resolution. "Oil Prices are DROPPING LIKE A ROCK, down almost $10 a Barrel, A RECORD, because people feel that there will not be a War with Iran. Iran wants a settlement, as soon as possible. It could happen!" he wrote.

He highlighted the significant weakening of Iran’s military forces, stating their navy and air force have been decimated. Trump also mentioned Iran’s severe economic struggles, including inflation rates exceeding 300 percent, the highest in 15 years for any country. He insisted the US remains firm in preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, citing recent Iranian statements renouncing nuclear ambitions.

US Vice President JD Vance also spoke optimistically about the negotiations. In an interview with Fox News in Minnesota, Vance said both he and President Trump felt positive about making progress toward a diplomatic agreement. "We’re going to keep on working at it... We’ve certainly made some progress. We’ll see if we can make some more," he remarked.

However, Iranian officials issued cautionary messages. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi conveyed Tehran’s readiness for both dialogue and military confrontation if necessary, warning that any renewed US military action would provoke a stronger response. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei underscored that the onus for advancing talks lies with the United States and reiterated demands for ending the US naval blockade of Iran.

These diplomatic efforts come amid reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urged President Trump to consider military strikes against Iran after the US midterm elections held on November 3, 2026. The situation remains fluid as all parties weigh their next moves in a complex geopolitical environment.

The ongoing dialogue between Washington and Tehran highlights the delicate balance the US seeks to maintain in the Middle East. Economic pressures, military posturing, and diplomatic channels are all factors influencing the direction of US-Iran relations. As global energy markets respond to these developments, with oil prices showing notable volatility, stakeholders worldwide are closely watching for any breakthroughs or setbacks in this critical international issue.