President Donald Trump hints at an announcement in the ‘next two days’ on Iran nuclear talks
Are the U.S. and Iran on the Brink of a Breakthrough or Another Diplomatic Mirage?
MORRISTOWN, N.J. — May 25, 2025. President Donald Trump, speaking to reporters outside his New Jersey residence on Saturday, surprised many by hinting at an imminent update on the ongoing nuclear negotiations with Iran.
“We’ve made serious progress. Really, very serious,” Trump said. “There could be a very important announcement in the next two days. We’ll see what happens.”
With those few words, the former and possibly future U.S. president set off a wave of speculation about a breakthrough in what has long been one of the most volatile diplomatic fault lines in modern geopolitics: the Iran nuclear issue.
Trump’s Shadow Diplomacy
While President Joe Biden remains in the White House, Trump’s active involvement in international affairs — especially nuclear diplomacy — has raised eyebrows and prompted debate over whether he is conducting a form of shadow diplomacy.
Sources close to the talks revealed that private negotiations have been ongoing for weeks, facilitated through intermediaries in Oman and Italy. Trump's envoys, including Mideast advisor Steve Witkoff and former NSC official Michael Anton, have been engaging with Iranian representatives in Rome, under the discreet watch of the Omani embassy — a traditional go-between in Washington-Tehran backchannels.
Though not officially sanctioned by the Biden administration, these dialogues have seemingly gained traction, suggesting that Tehran, under crippling sanctions and growing domestic unrest, is weighing new terms.
“We’ve done more in a few weeks than Biden has in four years,” Trump said, taking his characteristic jab at his successor. “We’ll see what Iran does. But I think they want to make a deal — and they want to make it with strength, and respect, which is something they didn’t get with Biden.”
Inside the Talks: What’s on the Table?
Although specific details are tightly guarded, insiders familiar with the negotiations say the framework under discussion involves:
Iran capping uranium enrichment levels well below weapons-grade thresholds.
Increased international inspections of Iranian nuclear sites by the IAEA.
Sanctions relief, including phased access to frozen assets and oil trade.
Regional de-escalation clauses, particularly relating to Iran’s proxies in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen.
The talks reportedly gained momentum after Trump sent a personal letter to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in early April — a highly unusual gesture, given the animosity between the two figures. While Khamenei did not respond directly, Iranian negotiators appeared in Rome within two weeks, according to diplomatic sources.
A Cautious Iran — and a Divided Washington
Iran has responded publicly with restraint. A spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry said only that “channels of communication remain open” and that Tehran “welcomes any constructive steps that respect its sovereignty and national interests.”
But not everyone is applauding Trump’s involvement.
White House officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed concern that Trump’s remarks could undermine official U.S. policy or confuse international allies. One senior State Department official noted, “While private citizens are free to speak their minds, conducting unofficial negotiations with a foreign adversary during an active administration is unprecedented — and potentially dangerous.”
Critics also warn that Trump’s direct engagement with Iran, without coordination from current U.S. agencies, could create a dual-track diplomacy that confuses Tehran — or worse, emboldens hardliners.
Still, many Trump supporters see this as classic Trump maneuvering: bold, unpredictable, and disruptive in ways that force results.
“Trump was the only president in 40 years who didn’t start a war,” said political strategist Corey Lewandowski. “He knows how to use pressure and deal-making better than anyone. That’s why Iran is listening now.”
Why Now?
The timing of this possible breakthrough is not coincidental.
Iran is suffering from renewed economic collapse, driven by decades of sanctions, plummeting oil revenue, and a restless population. Protests in Tehran and other major cities have intensified, with many citizens calling for reform — or regime change.
Meanwhile, in the U.S., Trump is deep into his 2025 campaign, attempting to reclaim the White House and capitalize on the Biden administration’s perceived foreign policy weaknesses, including its handling of Ukraine, China, and the Middle East.
A successful deal with Iran — or at least the appearance of one — could bolster Trump’s image as a global dealmaker, particularly among voters who believe the U.S. needs a tougher, more transactional foreign policy.
What Comes Next?
Whether Trump’s announcement materializes in the next 48 hours or fizzles out like so many previous peace overtures, one thing is certain: the Iran nuclear issue remains one of the most complex and consequential diplomatic puzzles of our time.
If a deal is truly near — one that could roll back Iran’s nuclear ambitions, stabilize the region, and lift a generation of sanctions — it would represent a seismic shift in U.S.-Middle East relations.
But if this is just another chapter in Trump’s showman diplomacy, the stakes are no less high. The world will be watching.
Until then, the countdown begins.
About the Creator
The Trans Youth Athletes in the US Fighting for Their Rights: ‘Playing Is an Act of Resistance
Across the United States, youth sports have become a flashpoint in the broader cultural and political debate over transgender rights. For transgender and nonbinary young athletes, stepping onto a field, court, or track is no longer just about competition or teamwork—it has become a deeply political act. As state legislatures pass laws restricting trans participation in school sports, many trans youth athletes say that simply playing the games they love feels like an act of resistance, resilience, and self-affirmation. The Rise of Restrictive Laws Over the past few years, dozens of US states have proposed or enacted laws that bar transgender youth—particularly trans girls—from participating in sports consistent with their gender identity. Supporters of these laws argue they are designed to preserve “fairness” in women’s sports. Critics, however, say the measures are discriminatory, unsupported by scientific evidence, and target a very small and vulnerable population. According to civil rights groups, these policies often affect children as young as elementary school age. For many trans youth athletes, the laws mean exclusion from school teams, loss of scholarships, and the erasure of a key source of community and mental well-being. “Playing Is Who I Am” For trans youth athletes, sports are not just extracurricular activities—they are lifelines. Many describe athletics as a place where they first learned discipline, teamwork, and confidence. Being told they no longer belong can be devastating. One high school runner from the Midwest explained that competing helped them survive years of bullying and isolation. “When I run, I feel free,” they said. “When lawmakers say I can’t race, it feels like they’re saying I shouldn’t exist.” For these young people, continuing to play—whether in school leagues, community teams, or informal settings—is a way to assert their humanity. “Playing is an act of resistance,” said another trans athlete. “It’s me saying I deserve joy and opportunity like anyone else.” The Mental Health Impact Medical and psychological associations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Psychological Association, have repeatedly warned about the mental health consequences of excluding trans youth from sports. Research shows that participation in athletics can reduce anxiety, depression, and suicide risk among young people. Transgender youth already face higher rates of mental health challenges due to stigma and discrimination. Advocates argue that sports bans compound this harm by cutting off a critical support system. Coaches and teachers have also voiced concern, noting that sports often provide structure and mentorship that many students rely on. Athletes Becoming Advocates In response to these laws, some trans youth athletes have become outspoken advocates, testifying at state capitols, speaking to media outlets, and joining lawsuits challenging the bans. Despite their young age, they are often forced into the public eye, defending their right to play against hostile rhetoric. Legal challenges have had mixed results. In some states, courts have temporarily blocked enforcement of sports bans, allowing trans athletes to compete while cases proceed. In others, the laws remain in effect, leaving students in limbo. Civil rights organizations argue that these restrictions violate constitutional protections and federal civil rights laws, including Title IX, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in education. Voices from the Sports Community Not all opposition comes from activists alone. Many professional athletes, coaches, and sports organizations have spoken out against the bans. They argue that youth sports should prioritize inclusion, participation, and development—not exclusion based on identity. Several major sports bodies have adopted inclusive policies, emphasizing that there is no evidence trans youth athletes threaten fairness in school sports. Medical experts also note that athletic performance varies widely among individuals and cannot be reduced to gender identity alone. Political Symbolism and Real-Life Consequences Critics say the focus on trans youth athletes is largely symbolic, driven more by political strategy than real concerns about sports integrity. Transgender athletes make up a tiny fraction of all student athletes, yet they have become central to campaign speeches and culture-war narratives. For the athletes affected, however, the consequences are deeply personal. Some families have relocated to more inclusive states so their children can continue playing. Others have turned to private leagues or stopped participating altogether, grieving the loss of something that once brought joy and purpose. Resilience and Hope Despite the challenges, many trans youth athletes remain determined. They find strength in supportive families, inclusive coaches, and teammates who stand by them. Social media has also helped young athletes connect across state lines, sharing stories and strategies for coping and resistance. Grassroots movements continue to push for change, emphasizing empathy, science, and the voices of the athletes themselves. Advocates stress that the debate should center on children’s well-being, not fear or misinformation. Conclusion: More Than a Game For trans youth athletes in the US, sports are about more than winning or losing. They are about belonging, dignity, and the right to participate fully in society. As legal and political battles continue, these young athletes keep showing up—on fields, courts, and tracks—as a quiet but powerful form of protest. In their determination to play, they send a clear message: their identities are not up for debate, and their love of sport will not be legislated away. For them, playing is not just a game—it is an act of resistance, hope, and survival.
By Aarif Lashari6 days ago in The Swamp
Comments (1)
Trump's involvement in Iran nuclear talks is really something. It's interesting that these private negotiations are happening. Do you think this could actually lead to a deal? And how will it impact the relationship between the US and Iran in the long run? It's bold of Trump to claim more progress in weeks than Biden did in years. But we'll have to wait and see if there's a real breakthrough. What do you think the chances are of an important announcement in the next two days like he said?