Trump Optimistic on Iran Deal Without Nuclear Weapons

While U.S. military assets flood the Middle East, former President Donald Trump expressed optimism about reaching a deal with Iran—provided it excludes nuclear weapons. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One en route to Florida on Saturday night, January 31, 2026, Trump did not rule out military action but emphasized ongoing serious negotiations between Washington and Tehran. He praised Iranian officials for negotiating in good faith and noted the deployment of powerful U.S. naval assets to the region, stating he hopes talks yield an acceptable agreement. In a Fox News interview, Trump said, “If they can reach a satisfactory agreement without nuclear weapons, they should do it. I don’t know if it will happen—but they’re talking to us, seriously.” A top Iranian official confirmed negotiations are underway via a post on X, despite rising regional tensions and increased U.S. troop presence in the Gulf.