WASHINGTON, D.C. (The Thursday Times) — President Donald Trump said on Thursday that the United States would not use nuclear weapons in its conflict with Iran, dismissing the idea as unnecessary after what he described as the successful destruction of Iranian military capabilities through conventional force.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump reacted sharply when asked whether he would consider a nuclear strike, saying there was no reason to deploy such weapons when, in his words, Iran had already been heavily weakened by conventional military action. He added that nuclear weapons should never be used by any country.
The remarks came at a delicate moment in the war, with a two-week ceasefire still holding and diplomatic channels focused on whether a broader settlement can be reached. Trump signalled he was unwilling to be rushed into a quick arrangement, saying he preferred a durable accord over a temporary fix.
“I want to make the best deal,” he said, adding that while an agreement could be reached immediately, his priority was one that would last.
Trump also claimed that Iran may have attempted to rebuild some of its weapons stockpiles during the pause in fighting, but said American forces could neutralise any such effort rapidly if hostilities resumed.
The comments are likely to be read as an attempt to reassure allies and markets that Washington does not intend to escalate into nuclear brinkmanship, even while maintaining pressure on Tehran. The prospect of nuclear use had fuelled speculation in recent days as the conflict intensified and regional powers weighed the risk of a wider Middle East war.
For now, Trump appears to be balancing two messages: military dominance on one hand, and negotiated permanence on the other.
That combination may define the next phase of the crisis. If talks progress, the ceasefire could become the foundation of a broader settlement. If they fail, Trump has made clear that conventional force, not nuclear escalation, remains his chosen instrument.
