WASHINGTON (The COW News Digital) US President Donald Trump has said that the situation in Iran is “very bad,” while expressing uncertainty over whether Tehran is prepared to surrender amid the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting with technology executives at the White House, Trump said he did not know whether Iran would “give up yet.” His remarks came as diplomatic efforts to ease tensions between Washington and Tehran continued. Reuters reported that Qatar is mediating between the two sides as discussions remain ongoing.
Trump has repeatedly described Iran as being in a difficult position during the conflict. In his latest comments, however, he did not indicate that an immediate resolution had been reached or provide a specific timeline for Tehran to end the confrontation.
Meanwhile, diplomatic contacts between Iran and the United States have continued through intermediaries. According to Reuters, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi received US feedback through Qatari mediators on a proposed seven-day trust-building plan. The proposal includes measures related to the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s nuclear program, although disagreements remain over the sequencing of steps.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a major point of concern because of its importance to global energy supplies. The continuing uncertainty surrounding US-Iran negotiations has also contributed to volatility in international oil markets. Reuters reported on September 30 that Brent crude had climbed above $103 per barrel amid stalled negotiations and tight fuel markets.
During his White House appearance, Trump also discussed artificial intelligence and US technological leadership. He said the United States had a significant advantage in the field of AI and wanted to maintain that position.
Trump and several leading technology executives recently signed a voluntary agreement concerning AI safety standards. The agreement includes commitments to work with independent auditors and prevent AI systems from accessing or interfering with technical systems in unintended ways. Trump described the document as a form of protection and indicated that his administration was considering additional oversight mechanisms.
The US president also discussed the construction of data centers needed to support the rapidly expanding AI industry. He said the locations of future data centers had been discussed and argued that communities hosting such facilities could receive substantial financial benefits.
The remarks came as the Trump administration faces continuing pressure over both the Iran conflict and the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure.
On Iran, the situation remains unresolved, with Washington maintaining pressure on Tehran while diplomatic channels remain active. Reuters reported that Qatar has continued shuttle diplomacy between the two sides in an effort to reduce tensions and address issues including the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump’s latest statement therefore reflects continued uncertainty over whether the confrontation will move toward a negotiated settlement or further escalation, while talks through intermediaries remain underway.
