‘Blast the hell out of them or make a deal’: Donald Trump lays out stark options after Iran’s ‘unsatisfactory’ proposal

US President Donald Trump on Friday expressed fresh doubts about the prospects of a deal with Iran, saying he was “not happy” with the latest proposals from Tehran as negotiations drag on.

Speaking at the White House, Trump said he was uncertain whether a breakthrough was possible. “We just had a conversation with Iran. Let’s see what happens, but I would say that I’m not happy… I’m not satisfied with what they’re offering,” he told reporters, adding that while progress had been made, it was unclear if talks would ultimately succeed.

The Republican leader framed the situation starkly, outlining two possible paths: military action or diplomacy. “There are options. Do we want to go and just blast the hell out of them… or do we want to try and make a deal? On a human basis, I’d prefer a deal,” he said.

Iran’s new proposal

Iran has reportedly submitted a fresh proposal aimed at ending the two-month conflict, even as the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz remains blocked, disrupting global petroleum trade. However, details of the proposal have not been made public.

Earlier, Tehran had offered to reopen the vital shipping route and end hostilities, but sought to delay discussions on its nuclear programme—an approach Washington rejected. The US instead pushed for strict conditions, including commitments that Iran would not move enriched uranium from damaged facilities or resume nuclear activity during ongoing talks.

A White House spokesperson reiterated that the US position remains firm: Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons, even as diplomatic efforts continue behind closed doors.

Oil market impact

The conflict has rattled global energy markets. Oil prices surged to a wartime high of $114.70 per barrel before easing, reflecting ongoing uncertainty tied to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—a key artery for global oil supply.