Trump Tells Meet the Press: No Sanctions Relief or Asset Unfreezing Until Iran Deal Is Fully Completed

Washington, D.C. – President Donald Trump stated firmly in an exclusive interview with NBC News’ “Meet the Press” that the United States will not lift sanctions or unfreeze Iranian assets until a comprehensive deal is reached and Iran demonstrates compliance, rejecting any upfront concessions in ongoing negotiations to end the three-month conflict.

In the interview conducted with moderator Kristen Welker, Trump reiterated his administration’s “peace through strength” approach while outlining conditions for any potential agreement. “That comes after,” Trump said when asked about sanctions relief. “Yeah, if they behave, if they do a good job, we start talking.”

Trump criticized the 2015 Obama-era nuclear deal (JCPOA), which he withdrew from during his first term, describing it as a pathway to a nuclear weapon. He emphasized that any new agreement must prevent Iran from developing nuclear capabilities and address its support for terrorism.

The president detailed plans for handling Iran’s highly enriched uranium under a potential deal. “If we make a deal that now we’re friendly, we’ll all go together. It’ll be our equipment. We’ll take it out and destroy it, whether it’s on-site or whether we take it off-site,” Trump explained. Without a deal, he indicated the U.S. would continue degrading Iranian capabilities to secure the material independently.

Trump described Iran as “strong” and “proud,” making negotiations challenging, but expressed optimism that a deal is close on major issues, with only minor points remaining. He defended military actions taken against Iran, framing them as necessary to force Tehran to the table after attacks on U.S. allies and threats to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The interview comes as U.S. forces continue operations supporting freedom of navigation and pressuring Iran’s regime. Trump highlighted successes in countering Iranian threats, including actions against drone attacks, while maintaining that the U.S. is not seeking regime change but verifiable behavioral change from Tehran.

Administration officials have stressed maximum pressure through sanctions has weakened Iran’s economy and military posture, positioning the U.S. favorably in talks. Trump has repeatedly warned that failure to reach an agreement would result in further decisive action.

This stance aligns with the president’s long-held view that previous administrations gave away too much leverage too early. No immediate sanctions relief is on the table, a position designed to ensure Iran makes lasting commitments on its nuclear program, ballistic missiles, and regional proxies before any economic benefits are granted.

The full interview aired amid ongoing diplomatic efforts, with Oman and other intermediaries reportedly involved. Outcomes remain fluid as both sides navigate the complex path to ending hostilities while securing U.S. interests and regional stability.