US President Donald Trump stated that Iranian leaders are afraid of being killed by their own people, even as they continue secret discussions with the United States. He made the remarks during the National Republican Congressional Committee’s annual fundraising event in Washington, D.C., where he addressed topics including the midterm elections, immigration, and Venezuela. Trump insisted that Tehran is desperate to reach a deal with Washington, despite repeated denials from Iran earlier in the week.

According to Trump, Iranian leaders are reluctant to admit their willingness to negotiate because they fear both domestic backlash and potential US action. He also described the ongoing Middle East conflict as a “military operation,” noting that the term “war” would require congressional approval. His comments came amid reports of continued US strikes in the region and Saudi Arabia’s call for maintaining pressure on Iran.

The remarks highlight Trump’s continued focus on Iran policy and his framing of US actions in the Middle East as part of a broader strategic campaign.