Fact Check: Trump Claims He Gave Iran a '60 Day Ultimatum' and That Friday Marked 'Day 61'
What We Know
On June 12, 2025, former President Donald Trump made a claim on his Truth Social platform stating that he had given Iran a "60-day ultimatum to make a deal" regarding their nuclear program, and that the following day marked "day 61" of this ultimatum. In a subsequent interview with CNN, Trump reiterated this assertion, emphasizing that Iran should have acted within the given timeframe to negotiate a deal before it was too late (CNN, Times of Israel).
Trump's statements came in the context of escalating tensions following Israeli airstrikes targeting Iran's military and nuclear capabilities, which he described as a "very successful attack" (CNN). He suggested that these strikes were a consequence of Iran's failure to engage in negotiations during the ultimatum period (WION).
Analysis
Trump's claim about the 60-day ultimatum is corroborated by multiple sources. He explicitly stated, "Two months ago I gave Iran a 60-day ultimatum to 'make a deal.' They should have done it! Today is day 61" (WION, The Guardian). This aligns with his broader narrative that Iran had missed opportunities to negotiate, which he has communicated consistently in various public statements.
However, the reliability of Trump's statements can be scrutinized. While he asserts that he provided Iran with an ultimatum, there is no independent verification of such a formal ultimatum being issued by the U.S. government. The context of his statements—made after significant military actions by Israel—suggests a strategic framing rather than a documented diplomatic process.
Moreover, Trump's claims about the ultimatum and the subsequent Israeli strikes could be viewed as an attempt to align himself with Israeli actions while distancing the U.S. from direct involvement (The Guardian). This presents a complex narrative where Trump's statements may serve both to assert his influence over U.S.-Iran relations and to bolster his support for Israel.
Conclusion
The claim that Trump gave Iran a "60-day ultimatum" and that Friday marked "day 61" is True based on his own statements made on Truth Social and during interviews. However, the lack of independent documentation regarding the ultimatum and the context in which these statements were made raises questions about their authenticity and intent. While the claim itself is accurate, it is essential to consider the broader implications and motivations behind Trump's statements.
Sources
- Trump warns Iran to agree to a deal 'before there is nothing left'
- Trump says he gave Iran a 60-day ultimatum: 'Today is day 61... Now they have perhaps a second chance!'
- 'Gave Iran a 60 days, today is day 61': Trump hints Israeli strikes came because Iran didn't 'make a deal'
- Trump scrambles to claim credit for Israel's Iran attack he publicly opposed
- Not Concerned About War, Gave Iran 60 Days, Today's 61st: Trump
- Not Concerned About War, Gave Iran 60 Days, Today's 61st
- Trump Tells Iran To Do Deal Now After Israel Blasts Nuclear And Military Sites
- Iran Would Be 'Suicidal' to Target US Forces, Ex-Trump Official Says
