Washington: US President Donald Trump expressed skepticism about Iran's newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei's ability to coexist peacefully with Washington, reiterating his dissatisfaction with Iran's leadership choice.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump conveyed his doubts in an interview with Fox News, stating, "I don't believe he can live in peace." He further expressed his discontent with Iran's selection, labeling it "a big mistake" and cautioning that the new leader might not endure without US approval. Trump's stance on potential US-Iran talks remained uncertain as he acknowledged hearing that Iran is eager to negotiate, yet termed it merely "possible" and dependent on agreeable conditions-a shift from his earlier assertion of having already "agreed to talk" with Iranian officials.

In the interview, Trump provided new reasons for the US-led campaign against Iran, claiming that US strikes had destroyed half of Iran's missile stockpile on February 28. He justified the timing by suggesting an imminent threat, asserting, "If we (had) waited three days, I believe we would have been attacked." Iran, however, contests this narrative, denying any intent to pursue nuclear weapons or missiles capable of reaching the US.

Trump further mentioned that his envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, reported Iran's claim of possessing enough enriched uranium for 11 nuclear bombs, a revelation he suggested made military action unavoidable. He stated, "They're basically saying that I have to attack them."

The Middle East has seen increased hostilities following a joint attack by Israel and the US on Iran on February 28, resulting in over 1,200 fatalities, including the then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Mojtaba Khamenei, appointed this week, is his son. In response, Tehran has launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets. The conflict has claimed the lives of eight US service members since it began.