Trump rules out extending ceasefire with Iran, calls deal a better option

Amid fragile West Asia peace efforts, US President Donald Trump said he is unlikely to extend the Iran ceasefire, signalling a preference for a permanent deal even as talks continue.

In Short

• Trump claims US brought about regime change in Iran
• Says he prefers permanent peace deal over truce extension
• Expects 'amazing two days ahead' as talks set to resume

Amid fragile diplomatic efforts for permanent peace in West Asia, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said he is not considering extending the ongoing ceasefire with Iran, stressing that a more permanent agreement remains his preferred outcome.

In his latest remarks to ABC News, Trump said the ceasefire could conclude without renewal, even as negotiations continue. "It could end either way, but I think a deal is preferable because then they can rebuild," he said.

The US President’s comments come as Washington and Tehran are preparing for a second round of peace talks in Islamabad, days after the first round concluded without any breakthrough on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, which is a key sticking point for the White House.

Expressing optimism about the upcoming talks, Trump told ABC News Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl, "I think you’re going to be watching an amazing two days ahead," he said. "I really do."

The President reiterated his claim that the US action had effectively brought about regime change in Iran, asserting that it had eliminated what he described as “radical” elements. "They really do have a different regime now. No matter what, we took out the radicals. They’re gone, no longer with us," he claimed.

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