RIYADH, Saudi Arabia - In a meeting with Gulf Cooperation Council leaders on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump emphasized the urgency of reaching a nuclear deal with Iran while insisting on additional conditions [1][2]. The talks, hosted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, highlighted the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.

President Trump stated, "(Iran) must stop sponsoring terror, halt its bloody proxy wars, and permanently and verifiably cease pursuit of nuclear weapons" [1][2][3]. He added emphatically, "They cannot have a nuclear weapon" [1][2][3][4].

The US and Iran have engaged in four rounds of negotiations since early April 2025, primarily focusing on Iran's nuclear program [1][2][3]. While Trump expressed optimism about the possibility of an agreement, he also warned that "the window is closing" [1][2][3].

Trump's demands for Iran to cease support for regional proxy groups, including Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen, come at a time when these organizations have reportedly faced significant setbacks. This follows the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, which triggered a series of regional conflicts [1][2][3].

In response to Trump's remarks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called them "deceitful" but did not directly address the call to end support for proxy groups [2]. This reaction underscores the ongoing tensions and complexities surrounding the negotiations.

The talks in Riyadh reflect the intricate balance of power in the Middle East, with Gulf states closely watching the developments between the US and Iran. As negotiations continue, the outcome could significantly impact regional stability and international relations.