RismadarVoice Reporters
September 6, 2026
A senior official in US President Donald Trump’s administration has said a nuclear agreement with Iran may not be reached, suggesting that diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran could be losing momentum.
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright made the comments during an interview with ABC News on Sunday, saying there was a possibility that negotiations could fail and that the United States might instead focus on preventing Iran from developing nuclear capabilities.
“There may not be a nuclear deal, Wright said, adding that the US could consider measures aimed at limiting Iran’s ability to build nuclear infrastructure.
The United States has previously carried out strikes against facilities it said were linked to Iran’s nuclear programme. Tehran has consistently denied seeking nuclear weapons, maintaining that its programme is designed for peaceful energy purposes.
Wright said US actions had reduced Iran’s ability to develop missile systems and nuclear weapons capabilities, while defending Washington’s approach to the conflict.
“They can’t build more missiles,” Wright said, adding that the US was working to reduce Iran’s ability to develop and deploy nuclear weapons.
However, the Energy Secretary said a future agreement could still be possible under different circumstances, suggesting that a deal may depend on changes in Iran’s leadership.
“An agreement may await the next administration in Iran,” Wright said.
The comments come amid renewed tensions between the United States and Iran following the collapse of a memorandum of understanding in July. Subsequent military exchanges, including attacks and naval tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, have further complicated diplomatic efforts.
Despite the escalation, the White House has sought to downplay the intensity of the conflict. President Donald Trump recently described the situation as “small potatoes”, while Vice President JD Vance said the administration did not consider the situation an active war.
Wright said the United States would continue working with regional allies to address the situation, adding that other countries could become involved in efforts to resolve the conflict.
The White House has not issued a response to the latest comments.
