Trump to Announce New Strategy on Iran This Friday

Sarah Sanders, White House spokesperson, stated on Thursday, October 12, that Donald Trump, the President of the United States, will announce the new strategy of the U.S. government regarding Iran on Friday. According to Reuters, the spokesperson mentioned that the President will reveal the strategy concerning Iran at 12:45 PM (Washington time). Previously, White House officials indicated that in this speech, Donald Trump would outline the U.S. strategy concerning Iran's nuclear deal with six world powers, the JCPOA, as well as Iran's 'bad behavior' in the region. On Thursday, American media reported that the U.S. government had informed Congress that Donald Trump would not certify Iran's compliance with the nuclear agreement. The Associated Press also reported that despite Trump not certifying Iran's compliance, he would not call for the reinstatement of sanctions either. This potential decision by Trump not to certify Iran's compliance with the nuclear deal has raised concerns among European officials. According to Reuters, Sigmar Gabriel, the German Foreign Minister, stated on Thursday that Trump's announcement of Iran's non-compliance with the JCPOA would create a rift between Europe and the U.S. and would bring the positions of European countries closer to a common stance with Russia and China on this issue. Gabriel mentioned in an interview with the 'Rheinische Post' that it is essential for Europe to maintain a unified position on this matter. The German Foreign Minister added that they must tell the Americans that their behavior regarding Iran will push Europeans towards a common stance with Russia and China against the U.S. Reuters reports that several American and European officials have warned that Trump's announcement of Iran's non-compliance with the JCPOA would lead to the U.S. being isolated internationally on this issue. Meanwhile, Donald Trump has referred to the nuclear deal with Iran as one of the 'worst deals' that is a 'shame' for America. The U.S. President also stated the day before that America has gained nothing from the nuclear agreement. If the U.S. government does not certify Iran's compliance with the JCPOA in a report to lawmakers, Congress will have 60 days to decide on Iran's sanctions. In this context, the latest statements from Trump and reactions are emerging ahead of the decision on the nuclear agreement. Ed Royce called for strict oversight of the Iran nuclear agreement. Zarif stated in Parliament: we will not negotiate the nuclear issue again. A phone conversation took place between Theresa May and Trump; Britain emphasized its commitment to the JCPOA. The White House stated that Trump will announce his strategy regarding Iran in the coming days.