MEMPHIS: Donald Trump said Monday that the United States is engaged in “really good discussions” with Iran, expressing optimism that tensions could ease despite earlier threats of military action.

Speaking at a Memphis Safe Task Force roundtable, Trump suggested that Tehran is willing to reach an agreement. “They want peace, they’ve agreed they will not have a nuclear weapon… we’re going to get it done,” he said, signaling confidence in a diplomatic outcome.

At the same time, Trump indicated that the idea of military intervention was initially pushed by Pete Hegseth. He described discussions about potentially escalating troop levels or pursuing a strike, saying the US could “eliminate a big problem” if necessary.

Iran, however, swiftly rejected Trump’s claims. Officials from the foreign ministry denied that any negotiations had taken place, contradicting the president’s account of ongoing talks.

Earlier, Trump said he was delaying possible attacks on Iranian power infrastructure for five days, following prior warnings tied to the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The waterway remains a critical global oil route and a focal point of geopolitical friction.

Trump also criticized NATO allies, including the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer, for what he described as insufficient support in securing the region.

Iran has maintained that the strait remains open to non-hostile nations while warning adversaries against interference.