Trump to Address Nation as Iran Rejects Formal Talks with U.S. Envoy

President Donald Trump is scheduled to deliver a prime-time address at 9 p.m. ET today to discuss the ongoing conflict with Iran. The address comes as the White House signals that the U.S. has largely achieved its military objectives and aims to conclude the war in the coming weeks. However, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has maintained a dual-track approach, stating that while Washington seeks a deal, it remains prepared to continue military operations if Tehran does not comply with U.S. terms. In Tehran, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that while messages have been exchanged with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, these do not constitute formal negotiations. Araghchi emphasized a total lack of trust between the two nations, citing previous attacks during diplomatic windows. Iran has yet to respond to a 15-point U.S. proposal, maintaining that all military actions must cease before any substantive dialogue can begin. President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran is willing to end the war only if provided with firm guarantees. On the military front, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) released footage on March 31 showing various missile and drone launches, signaling continued readiness despite diplomatic pressure. Meanwhile, President Trump has signaled a potential shift in regional strategy by suggesting that nations other than the United States should take responsibility for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, decoupling the waterway's status from current U.S. military objectives.