US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran is “very eager” to reach an agreement with Washington, amid renewed political controversy over remarks attributed to him regarding the funeral of Iran’s former leader, Ali Khamenei. According to a report by Al Jazeera on Saturday, 4 July, Trump made the comments during a speech marking the beginning of celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the United States. The report said Trump spoke at Mount Rushmore, where he also addressed concerns about communism and the military strength of the United States. He was quoted as saying: “We defeated Venezuela in one day and we defeated Iran badly. They are eager for a deal; they really want to make a deal.” In the same remarks, Trump was also reported to have claimed that Tehran had been given a one-week timeframe to hold the funeral ceremonies of Ali Khamenei. Trump has previously repeatedly claimed that Iran seeks negotiations with Washington, statements that have often sparked political debate and controversy.
