Trump wants Arab funding for Iran war

US President Donald Trump is considering asking Arab countries to help finance the war with Iran, according to the White House.

Press secretary Caroline Leavitt said the idea had been discussed by the president and would be outlined publicly, but declined to provide further details.

She also said negotiations between the United States and Iran were continuing and were, in her words, moving in a positive direction. However, she pointed to a gap between Tehran’s public statements and its private communications with US officials, adding that Iran had accepted some of Washington’s proposals behind the scenes.

Leavitt said the United States would closely scrutinise any commitments and insist on full compliance.

The remarks come amid rising tensions in the region. Trump has warned that Iran’s energy facilities and oil wells could be destroyed if Tehran does not open the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran has dismissed US peace proposals as unrealistic and has responded by launching missiles towards Israel.

(reuters, max)