Trump Invokes Venezuela Model For Iran, Warns Of 'Biggest Attack Since World War II'

Washington: US President Donald Trump has once again taken a firm stand against Iran, saying Washington will deal with Tehran using the same strategy it applied to Venezuela. Addressing a gathering in Las Vegas, Trump said Iran sought negotiations after facing increased military pressure. He added that he has always favored a diplomatic compromise over war, while making it clear that the United States would never allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons.

What did Donald Trump say?

During his address in Las Vegas, Donald Trump said that the US is maintaining pressure on Iran, but he prefers a deal to conflict. "We're doing the same thing we did in Venezuela. We're severely weakening them. I would prefer a deal because I don't want to see people die," Trump said. He also indicated that the US has military options, but is keeping diplomatic avenues open for now.

Will it be the greatest attack since World War II?

According to Trump, the United States was ready for a big military operation. Trump stated, "We were ready for the greatest attack since World War II. Then they called us and asked, 'Please, don't do that, talk to us.'" But he also asserted that Iran publicly refused any negotiation in its statement after that. He emphasized that there is communication between them, and that in the next few days the whole situation would become clear.

What about the nuclear program?

Again in his speech, he emphasized that Iran cannot have nuclear weapons. He added, "Iran now respects us. No president before has done what was supposed to be done a long time ago: Iran should not have nuclear weapons." It has been the concern of the US regarding the nuclear program of Iran for a long time.

What were Trump's statements regarding Venezuela?

Trump referred to Venezuela in his speech, saying that the strategy employed by the United States towards Venezuela has proven to be very successful. Trump pointed out that Venezuela is among the world's largest producers of oil and that at present, the relations between the United States and Venezuela are quite cordial. Trump further stated that at present, the United States is benefiting from the oil supplies from Venezuela and that relations between the two nations have gotten better than before.

Did Trump give any praise to ICE?

During his speech, Trump praised the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Trump talked about the Venezuelan criminal gang Tren de Aragua and pointed out how ICE officers have taken tough actions against illegal activities. Trump said that the security agencies of the United States perform a very important role within the nation.

Trump also claimed in a conversation with reporters that "significant progress" has been made in the contacts between the US and Iran. He said that Iranian officials have expressed a willingness to communicate and that the situation could become clearer in the next 48 hours. According to Trump, choosing the path of agreement would be the most prudent step for Iran. He indicated that if the talks are successful, tensions in the region could decrease, but if no solution is found, the US may consider other options to protect its interests.