White House urges Iran to 'give up' nuclear weapons program to achieve peace

WASHINGTON

Amid intensifying Israel-Iran tension, a senior White House official said Saturday that a peaceful resolution remains within reach if Tehran is willing to abandon its nuclear weapons program.

"Whatever happens today cannot be prevented," the official told Anadolu.

"But we have the ability to negotiate a successful peaceful resolution to this conflict if Iran is willing. The fastest way for Iran to accomplish peace is to give up its nuclear weapons program," the official added.

The sixth round of indirect nuclear talks between the US and Iran, scheduled for Sunday in Muscat, will not be taking place, according to Oman's foreign minister.

Israel bombed Iran’s atomic facilities and killed some of its top commanders and nuclear scientists early Friday, and has continued its attacks ever since. Iran also launched retaliatory strikes.

US President Donald Trump earlier urged Iran to accept a nuclear deal to avoid further attacks.​​​​​​