Washington, March 23 (NationPress) President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the United States will delay its planned military actions against Iran for a period of five days to explore diplomatic avenues, stating that discussions with Tehran present “a very good chance” of reaching an agreement.

Speaking at a Memphis Safe Task Force roundtable in Tennessee, Trump noted that his decision was influenced by “preliminary conversations between the United States and Iran over the last two days.”

“I've instructed the Department of War to temporarily halt the planned strikes on significant energy and electricity targets in Iran,” he explained, emphasizing that this pause aims to determine “if a broader accord can be achieved.”

He expressed hope regarding the diplomatic situation, saying, “I believe there's a very good chance we will ultimately reach a deal,” and indicated that Iran “desires peace.”

Trump connected this diplomatic opportunity to recent U.S. military actions, stating, “Only due to the exceptional efforts of our military are they now serious about negotiations.” He added, “They are eager to settle, and we will accomplish this.”

He asserted that U.S. operations have significantly diminished Iran's military capabilities, claiming, “We have effectively dismantled their Navy, air force, and anti-aircraft systems. Everything has been neutralized.”

According to Trump, Iran's missile and drone infrastructure has been considerably weakened. “We are decimating their ballistic missile and drone programs, with launcher capabilities reduced by over 90%,” he remarked.

He reiterated that a fundamental U.S. goal is to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. “We will make sure Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon. They simply cannot have it,” he stated.

The President also suggested that Iranian negotiators have indicated a readiness to compromise. “They’ve agreed they will not pursue a nuclear weapon,” he claimed, while cautioning that “it must be finalized.”

Trump mentioned that strikes on Iranian infrastructure had been imminent. “We were preparing to target some of their power plants, but that will now be postponed,” he said.

He acknowledged the crucial role of U.S. allies, including Israel, stating, “They have been a tremendous partner in this effort.”

Additionally, Trump criticized Democrats for a partial government shutdown affecting airport security operations, highlighting “long lines and major disruptions at airports across the country,” and urged Congress to “restore full funding for airport security and the TSA.”

He accused Democrats of obstructing funding linked to border security and voter identification efforts. “They are delaying it because they wish to support illegal immigrants entering our nation,” he claimed.