Official announcements from the US or Iranian governments

Sullivan Warns Weakened Iran May Seek Nuclear Weapon; Trump Proposes Talks via Oman

Dec 22, 2024, 05:48 PM

White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has expressed concern that Iran may seek to develop a nuclear weapon following recent setbacks that have weakened its conventional capabilities, including Israeli attacks. Sullivan told CNN on Sunday that "it's no wonder there are voices in Iran saying, 'Hey, maybe we need to go for a nuclear weapon right now... maybe we have to revisit our nuclear doctrine.'" He emphasized that there is a "real risk" that Iran may change its longstanding position of not pursuing nuclear weapons. The Biden administration is briefing President-elect Donald Trump's team on the potential threat, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Meanwhile, reports from Baghdad Alyoum indicate that Trump has sent messages via Oman to Iran proposing negotiations on several issues, including Iran's nuclear program. Trump is reportedly willing to reach an agreement but may only wait a few months for a response. Sullivan expressed hope that Trump would use this opportunity to reach an agreement that limits Iran's nuclear ambitions.