President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that the United States is in active negotiations with Iran, stating that Tehran is "talking sense" and has agreed never to possess a nuclear weapon. Speaking to reporters during the swearing-in ceremony for Markwayne Mullin as Secretary of Homeland Security, Trump emphasized that preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons remains the top priority, describing it as "No. 1, 2, and 3" on a list of about 15 points of agreement.

"They're talking to us, and they're talking sense," Trump said. "It all starts with the fact that they cannot have a nuclear weapon... They've agreed they will never have a nuclear weapon." He noted that the U.S. is communicating with the "right people" in Iran, who are eager for a deal, and mentioned involvement from Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner.

The remarks come amid an escalating conflict, including U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets. Trump delayed planned attacks on Iran's energy infrastructure for five days, citing progress in talks. The New York Times reported that the U.S. sent Iran a 15-point plan to end the war through Pakistan, though details remain unclear. Trump also claimed Iran offered a "very significant prize" related to oil, gas, and the Strait of Hormuz as a gesture of good faith.

Iran has denied engaging in direct or indirect talks with the U.S., with officials dismissing Trump's statements as a "bluff." Tehran previously acknowledged receiving proposals via intermediaries but insisted any agreement must recognize its rights under international law and include sanctions relief.

The U.S. maintains that last summer's Operation Midnight Hammer destroyed Iran's nuclear program, with recent strikes aimed at preventing rebuilding. Trump reiterated demands for Iran to relinquish all enriched uranium, referring to it as "nuclear dust." Oil prices fell more than 5% following Trump's comments, reflecting market hopes for de-escalation.

The Pentagon is preparing to deploy around 3,000 soldiers from the Army's 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East, while the administration plans to request $200 billion in supplemental funding from Congress for war efforts. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt described the discussions as sensitive and ongoing, with Operation Epic Fury continuing.