U.S. President Donald Trump says the United States was prepared to launch what he described as its largest military strike since World War II against Iran before the operation was called off amid diplomatic contacts.
Speaking at an event in Las Vegas on Wednesday, Trump said the U.S. had inflicted significant damage on Iran in recent months but had been ready to escalate further before Tehran allegedly requested talks.
“We were all set for the biggest attack since World War II, and they called me and they said, ‘Please don’t do it. Let’s talk,'” Trump said, adding that Iran later denied making the request.
Trump also claimed that Iran now respects the United States following the recent conflict.
However, Iranian officials disputed Trump’s account, rejecting his claim that discussions are underway over the Strait of Hormuz. A senior Iranian official said there are no negotiations with Washington regarding the strategic waterway and described Trump’s comments as false.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a key point of tension, with reports indicating that Iran is seeking to impose transit fees on ships passing through the vital shipping route. The United States has rejected any attempt by Tehran to charge tolls for passage.
Iran also said it has received messages from Washington expressing interest in reviving previous commitments, but stressed that it has not yet decided whether to resume negotiations.
The conflicting statements underscore the continued uncertainty surrounding U.S.-Iran relations, even as diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions continue.
