Is Trump backing away from fresh Iran strikes? 10 big revelations from his 60 Minutes interview

US President Donald Trump appeared to distance himself from further military strikes against Iran during an interview with CBS's 60 Minutes. While defending the wars and insisting Iran can be dealt with diplomatically, Trump also suggested Tehran was close to an agreement before the Republican midterm defeat. The US leader defended earlier attacks, claiming Washington had prevented Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

He left open the option of attacking Iran's remaining nuclear facilities and said Tehran's nuclear material remained buried beneath thousands of tonnes of rock. Trump insisted the Strait of Hormuz was open, though attacks on commercial vessels continued, questioning whether the passage of some vessels amounts to a genuine reopening of an important oil route.

He acknowledged the Iran war had hurt Republicans and blamed poor messaging and the party's inability to replicate his personal electoral appeal. Trump defended his Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and expressed confidence in the military campaigns' successes. Regarding AI and China, Trump emphasized the need to maintain technological advantage while acknowledging potential dangers.

He supported safeguards but cautioned against restrictions that could leave the US trailing China. On the Ukraine conflict, Trump expressed confidence negotiations could eventually end the war, suggesting territorial changes. He defended selling weapons to European governments supporting Kyiv but did not announce a final peace deal.

Trump discussed potential successors, praising Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio without endorsing either. He suggested he would likely support someone in the Republican primaries, indicating his desire to retain influence over the party. In a personal discussion, Trump touched on topics such as heaven, death and forgiveness.