In a move to ramp up pressure on Iran, former U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive action on Tuesday, reinstating the “maximum pressure” campaign aimed at preventing Tehran from developing a nuclear weapon.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump expressed reluctance over the decision but emphasized the necessity of showing strength. “So this is one that I’m torn about. Everybody wants me to sign it. I’ll do that. It’s very tough on Iran,” he said. “We will see whether or not we can arrange or work out a deal with Iran.”
Trump added, “I’m signing this and I’m unhappy to do it, but I really have not so much choice because we have to be strong and firm. I mean, we’re going to see they cannot have a nuclear weapon with me. It’s very simple. Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon.”
The executive action comes ahead of Trump’s meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. Netanyahu, who supports increased pressure on Iran, is expected to discuss regional security concerns during their talks.
Later, alongside Netanyahu, Trump criticized the current U.S. administration’s Middle East policies, claiming they have enabled Iran to become “very strong right now.” He stated, “We’re not going to allow them to have a nuclear weapon. It’s very simple. You know, I signed a very strong proclamation.”
The “maximum pressure” campaign, originally implemented during Trump’s presidency, involved stringent economic sanctions on Iran. Critics argue that such measures escalate tensions, while supporters believe they are necessary to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
As the international community watches closely, it remains to be seen how Iran will respond to the renewed pressure and whether diplomatic negotiations can be rekindled.
