President Donald Trump announced that any sanctions relief granted to Iran will be contingent upon Tehran purchasing agricultural goods from the United States. He emphasized this as a key condition in the unfolding nuclear negotiations between the two countries, aiming to ensure that Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon.
Speaking at the White House after signing executive orders related to quantum technology, Trump described the ongoing talks as productive. He highlighted that shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz had returned to normal, reflecting improved maritime security. Trump insisted that Iran’s nuclear ambitions would be firmly restricted under the emerging framework of the negotiations.
Vice President JD Vance leads the US delegation currently negotiating with Iranian representatives in Switzerland, focusing on the future of Iran’s nuclear program, maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, and regional conflict de-escalation. Trump revealed that any unfrozen Iranian assets made available as part of the deal are expected to be used explicitly to buy food from American farmers, benefiting the US agricultural sector with commodities such as corn and soybeans.
Addressing concerns that easing sanctions might enable Iran to rebuild military capacity, Trump argued that the funds are designated for humanitarian purposes to alleviate hunger among the Iranian population. He maintained a firm stance on enforcement, warning that the US would respond decisively if Iran breaches the terms of any agreement.
Trump also downplayed perceptions that Iran had gained leverage through the talks. He asserted that recent military operations had severely weakened Iran’s military forces, including its navy and air force, while causing turmoil within its leadership and economy. He praised Vice President Vance’s performance in the negotiations, calling him intelligent and effective during recent briefings.
On regional energy security, Trump noted robust recovery in oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, citing record volumes passing through the critical waterway amid decreasing tensions.