Trump says US will never allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapon, signals preference for diplomacy

United States President Donald Trump, during his State of the Union address, sharply focused on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, stating that the US “will never allow the world’s number one sponsor of terror to have a nuclear weapon.”

While maintaining a firm stance, Trump said he prefers to resolve tensions through diplomacy, signaling that he wants to avoid direct military confrontation while continuing to apply pressure on Tehran.

He also claimed that Iran is advancing its missile capabilities at an alarming pace.

“They’ve already developed missiles that can threaten Europe and our bases overseas and they’re working to build missiles that will soon reach the United States of America,” Trump said.

Earlier remarks on Iran and national security

Earlier in his address, Trump framed his foreign policy approach as one focused on strength and deterrence. He reiterated that his administration would not tolerate regimes that threaten American interests or allies.

He also defended his broader strategy of economic pressure and sanctions, arguing that maximum pressure campaigns remain an effective tool in curbing adversarial actions without resorting to war.

Trump positioned his Iran policy within the larger framework of national security, emphasizing missile defense, strengthening US military readiness and reinforcing alliances in Europe and the Middle East.

At the same time, he suggested that diplomacy remains on the table if Iran changes course, indicating that negotiations are possible under conditions that ensure US security interests are protected.

The remarks underscore Trump’s continued balancing act between projecting toughness and signaling openness to diplomatic solutions.