In a recent statement reflecting the rapid developments of the ongoing war, US President Donald Trump announced that his country could withdraw from the war against Iran at this point. However, he conditioned the cessation of military operations on one primary requirement: ensuring that Tehran does not acquire nuclear weapons.

On Tuesday, October 19, 2026, during a public rally in Kansas, the US President highlighted the extent of the damage inflicted on Iran, asserting: "Tehran's military capability has been completely destroyed; their naval and air forces are gone, their radar and air defense systems have been shattered, and 229 of their fighter jets have been obliterated."

Continuing his speech, Trump pointed out a new challenge regarding negotiations: the lack of senior figures in Iran. According to him, "The country's first and second-tier leadership are gone, and half of their third-tier leadership has been wiped out, which makes it difficult to know who to negotiate with." He also revealed that the remaining leaders have requested guarantees for their safety to halt the attacks, ensuring they do not share the fate of previously killed officials.

In another segment of his speech, the US President addressed Iran's internal situation, claiming that authorities in Tehran have killed approximately 75,000 protesters over the past eight months. Finally, he reminded the audience that during his first presidential term, Qasem Soleimani was killed under his direct order.