President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that Iran has formally agreed to a permanent ban on the development and possession of nuclear weapons. The statement was made from the Oval Office during the swearing-in ceremony for the newly confirmed Homeland Security Secretary, Markwayne Mullin.
Trump characterized the development as a major concession following nearly a month of intensive military operations by United States and Israeli forces. "They will never have a nuclear weapon," the President told reporters. "They've agreed to that. They know we are in a very strong bargaining position."
The announcement comes as the regional conflict enters its twenty-fourth day. Administration officials stated that the Iranian navy has been largely neutralized and its defense industrial base dismantled since the military campaign began on February 28. Trump credited the "maximum pressure" strategy for the shift.
Despite the White House's claims, officials in Tehran have publicly denied that any such agreement has been reached. Iranian state media dismissed the reports as a diplomatic ploy intended to lower global energy prices and create internal leverage within the United States.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth reaffirmed the administration's stance that continued military pressure remains the primary driver for any potential negotiations. Hegseth noted that the War Department is focused on ensuring all strategic objectives are met through the precise and continued use of force.
In a related move, President Trump has postponed planned strikes on Iranian power plants for five days. This tactical pause is intended to allow diplomatic envoys to facilitate potential discussions with regional leaders who are acting as intermediaries.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been coordinating with counterparts in Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt. These nations have offered to provide the groundwork for meaningful talks to end the ongoing war and secure regional stability.
The news had an immediate impact on global markets, with oil prices falling sharply on the prospect of a de-escalation. However, the national average for gasoline in the United States remains elevated at approximately $3.96 per gallon.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described the current situation as fluid and cautioned that specific diplomatic details remain highly sensitive. Congressional leaders are currently seeking formal briefings on the verification mechanisms and enforcement of any proposed nuclear ban.
The administration maintains that its current policy has brought the Iranian leadership to a critical breaking point. Further updates on the implementation of the nuclear agreement are expected as the five-day diplomatic window continues through the week.