Iran War: 5 Key Takeaways from Trump's Cabinet Meeting

Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, confirmed the presentation of a 15-point "action list" to Iran, which serves as a framework for a peace plan. Witkoff stated that this plan has been transmitted through the Pakistani government, acting as a mediator, and that it has resulted in "strong and productive talks".

Witkoff described the talks as "sensitive diplomatic solutions" and noted that Trump has instructed his officials and the administration to "not negotiate with the news media". When asked about the previous day's reports on the peace plan, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that nothing should be considered confirmed unless it came from the White House. This caution underscores the complexity and sensitivity of the ongoing negotiations.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, while being favorable to a possible peace agreement with Iran, warned that the United States would continue to use military force against the country. This statement reflects the duality in the administration's messages about its intentions.

Hegseth stated that the Department of War would continue to "negotiate with bombs." These comments align with the administration's recent rhetoric, which has suggested the possibility of intensifying attacks if Iran does not agree to US terms. This stance creates an atmosphere of uncertainty and tension in the negotiations.

Trump blamed Democrats for the ongoing shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and warned that he would take "drastic measures" if the shutdown didn't end soon. The president accused Democrats of "punishing the American people".

The situation has led to long, chaotic lines at airports as Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees continue to call in sick or work without pay. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) said that Senate Republicans had sent their "final and final" offer to Democrats to end the shutdown.

Trump revealed that Iran's "gift" to the United States to prove its seriousness in discussions to end the war was to allow eight oil tankers to sail through the Strait of Hormuz.

The closure of the strait, which typically sees the passage of about 20 million barrels of oil a day, has caused the price of oil and gasoline to skyrocket. Subsequently, Iran allowed two more ships to sail through the strait. Trump mentioned that he hoped he hadn't "screwed up" the negotiations by sharing this detail.

Trump discussed the projects he has done around Washington, most notably his 90,000-square-foot ballroom, which he said will seat nearly 1,000 people. Construction has been ongoing since the demolition of the East Wing last year, which caused controversy.

It is expected to be completed in the summer of 2028 and cost around $400 million, all paid for by private donors, according to Trump. He also mentioned a planned triumphal arch in Washington's Memorial Circle, which is expected to be completed before July 4, 2026. In addition, he addressed the Kennedy Center, which will be closed for two years while renovations are underway. The performing arts center was renamed by its board late last year to add Trump's name.