ANKARA — US President Donald Trump said he has no intention of engaging with Iran’s government or its officials, delivering a sharply worded criticism of Tehran as tensions between the two countries continue to intensify.
Speaking during the NATO summit in Ankara, Trump said his position reflected years of hostility and unresolved disputes between Washington and Tehran, suggesting that direct engagement with Iranian authorities was not currently a priority for his administration.
“I don’t want to deal with Iran,” Trump said, describing the situation involving the Iranian leadership as deeply problematic. His remarks signaled a hardening stance toward Tehran at a time when diplomatic efforts between the two sides appear increasingly uncertain.
The comments came amid reports of a significant escalation in military activity, with US forces reportedly carrying out strikes against more than 80 targets inside Iran in recent hours. The developments have raised fears that a fragile understanding reached between the two countries could collapse and lead to a broader confrontation.
For decades, relations between the United States and Iran have been marked by deep disagreements over Iran’s nuclear programme, regional influence, sanctions, and security issues in the Middle East. Previous diplomatic efforts have repeatedly faced setbacks due to mutual accusations and a lack of trust between the two governments.
Trump’s latest comments are expected to further complicate efforts by international mediators seeking to reduce tensions and restore communication channels between Washington and Tehran.
The escalation has drawn concern from regional governments and international actors, who have warned that continued military confrontation could threaten stability across the Middle East and create wider security consequences.
Iran has yet to issue a detailed response to Trump’s remarks, while officials in Tehran have previously maintained that the country will defend its interests and respond to any actions it considers hostile.
Analysts say the coming days will be critical in determining whether the current crisis moves toward further confrontation or whether diplomatic efforts can prevent additional escalation.
