Trump Says Iran Wants to Talk as Hostilities with Israel Escalate

Amidst escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran, former President Donald Trump has indicated that Iranian officials are signaling a desire to de-escalate the conflict and engage in talks. Speaking to reporters, Trump suggested Iran is seeking an "off-ramp" and believes "they'd like to talk."

"They have to make a deal," Trump stated, emphasizing the potential pain for both sides. He added that Iran "is not winning this war" and urged them to engage in immediate discussions "before it's too late."

The comments come as Israel and Iran are reportedly engaged in a fourth day of intense exchanges, involving air strikes, ballistic missile attacks, and drone strikes. Initial reports claim that the conflict was triggered by Israeli strikes targeting Iranian military and nuclear sites.

The U.S. has been involved in negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program, aiming to prevent the development of a nuclear weapon. Although Iran maintains its program is for peaceful energy purposes, international agencies have expressed concern about Tehran's proximity to achieving weapons-grade uranium enrichment levels.

While Trump declined to comment on potential U.S. involvement in the conflict, he reaffirmed ongoing support for Israel, stating, "We've always supported Israel… Israel's doing very well right now." The situation remains highly volatile, with international leaders seeking pathways to de-escalation and a resolution to the escalating conflict.