Trump: Iran’s Centrifuges Will Either ‘Blow up Nicely’ in A Deal Or ‘Viciously’ Without One

US President Donald Trump indicated Wednesday, May 7, that he is seeking to “blow up” Iran’s nuclear centrifuges through an agreement with Tehran, but is also prepared to blow them up in an attack if necessary. 

Asked during an interview on a conservative talk show whether the US told Iran to choose either to turn over its nuclear centrifuges and uranium or to “get bombed,” US President Donald Trump responded, “It’s that simple.” 

For their part, Iranian officials have asserted that they will never dismantle their nuclear centrifuges. “I would much prefer a strong, verified deal where we actually blow them up… or just de-nuke them,” Trump said. “There are only two alternatives there, blow them up nicely or blow them up viciously.”

Earlier in the day, though, when Trump was asked by reporters whether the US position is to allow Iran to have a limited nuclear enrichment program, Trump responded, “We haven’t made that decision yet. We will.” 

The separate comments further underscored the lack of clarity regarding the administration’s position on Iran, as some officials have said they are prepared to allow Iran to have limited enrichment capabilities, while others have said that they want the nuclear program completely destroyed. 

On Sunday, Trump said that the aim of his administration’s nuclear talks with Iran is to achieve “total dismantlement” of Tehran’s nuclear program, but that he is open to letting the Islamic Republic pursue civilian nuclear energy. (TOI/VFI News)

“Through the tender mercy of our God, with which the Dayspring from on high has visited us; to give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” - Luke 1:78-79