Regarding the United States and Iran resuming nuclear talks after eight months, U.S. President Donald Trump said, "Iran desperately wants this," adding, "We must either strike a deal or take very strong action as we did last time."
On the 10th (local time), President Trump, in an interview with the U.S. online outlet Axios, said he expects a second round of nuclear talks between the United States and Iran to be held next week and stated accordingly.
Trump said, "One fleet is heading there, and another fleet could be added," adding, "I am also considering sending another aircraft carrier strike group."
Earlier, the United States deployed the Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East, and this is interpreted to mean that, in addition, it could boost its negotiating leverage by deploying military assets around Iran.
Trump claimed, "Iran very desperately wants talks," adding, "They are approaching this far more seriously than the transfer talks."
He then referred to the U.S. attack on Iran's nuclear facilities in June last year, emphasizing, "Last time, they did not believe I would carry it out. They were overly confident," and "This round of talks is very different."
In addition, Trump reaffirmed his position that he "opposes annexation" regarding Israel's move to annex the West Bank of the Jordan River.
He emphasized, "Even now, there is much we need to consider," adding, "There is no need to address the West Bank issue." However, it is viewed as uncertain whether President Trump will address the West Bank issue during his bilateral meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the 11th.
Earlier, Israel decided on measures to make it easier for Israelis to register land and acquire real estate in the West Bank. This is interpreted as a move to expand Jewish settlements in the area where the Palestinian Authority (PA) holds administrative control.