Trump Says Renewed Iran Strikes Are "Highly Unlikely" if Talks Make Progress

President Donald Trump said it is "highly unlikely" the United States will resume military attacks on Iran as long as negotiations continue to make progress, linking his assessment to the prospect of a strong agreement.

"It depends on whether or not they sign a very strong agreement," Trump told CNN's Jim Sciutto in a phone interview Sunday. "The answer is highly unlikely it's going to be necessary."

The talks involve Iran's nuclear program and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, according to CNN. Qatar has helped mediate the negotiations, while the United States has maintained a blockade and sanctions pressure on Iran.

Trump also said American forces remain positioned to strike if he decides further military action is needed. He described potential targets including power plants and bridges, but said he would prefer not to destroy infrastructure that could take years to rebuild. His remarks did not announce a signed agreement or rule out renewed attacks.

Diplomatic contacts have increased in recent days. Qatar said Friday that Trump spoke with Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani about de-escalation. Iran's foreign minister also held calls with several regional counterparts, CNN reported.