Trump says he 'may' send VP Vance to Iran to hold negotiations

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he wants a “real end” to Iran’s nuclear ambitions and is considering sending Vice President JD Vance or US Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff to Iran, amid intensifying hostilities between Iran and Israel.

The conflict, now entering its sixth day, has seen Israel launch a devastating aerial campaign, reportedly killing top Iranian military leaders and senior nuclear scientists. 

Israel claims it now has effective control over Iranian airspace and plans to escalate its offensive in the coming days.

Trump made the remarks during his late-night departure from Canada, where he attended the Group of Seven (G7) summit. Speaking to reporters, he dismissed claims that he had left the summit early to negotiate a ceasefire, calling the suggestion by French President Emmanuel Macron wrong.

“He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a ceasefire. Much bigger than that,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform late Monday.

Read: ‘Iran can never have a nuclear weapon,’ say G7 leaders as Middle East tensions grow

Trump emphasised that the Israeli assault could end quickly if Iran agrees to US demands to strictly curb its nuclear program. 

“Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON, I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!” he declared.

In comments posted by a CBS News reporter on X, Trump suggested that Israel would not be easing its attacks any time soon. “You’re going to find out over the next two days. Nobody’s slowed up so far,” he said.

Despite the ongoing military confrontation, the White House said Trump remains committed to reaching a nuclear deal with Iran. Politico reported that Trump is seeking a “complete give-up” of Iran’s nuclear capabilities as part of any potential agreement.

Meanwhile, Iran's Revolutionary Guards confirmed Tuesday that a "more powerful" wave of missiles had been launched toward Israel, according to state media. A senior Iranian military official also warned of an incoming wave of attack drones aimed at Israeli targets.