President Donald Trump, in a pointed message delivered during his State of the Union address on Tuesday night, challenged Iran to utter what he termed a “sacred phrase,” a demand linked to the possibility of renewed negotiations amid escalating tensions. The demand came as U.S. And Iranian negotiators are scheduled to resume talks later this week, according to sources familiar with the diplomatic efforts.
The precise meaning of the “sacred phrase” remains unclear, but Trump’s remarks suggest it relates to a commitment from Tehran to halt its pursuit of advanced nuclear capabilities and curtail support for regional proxy groups. “They can’t say the sacred phrase,” Trump stated, without elaborating further during the address. The statement has been interpreted by some analysts as a prerequisite for serious dialogue, while others view it as a rhetorical tactic designed to increase pressure on the Iranian government.
The upcoming negotiations represent a delicate moment in U.S.-Iran relations, which have been strained since Trump’s withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the 2015 nuclear agreement, in 2018. Following the U.S. Withdrawal, Iran gradually rolled back its commitments under the JCPOA, increasing its uranium enrichment levels.
Recent days have seen a shift in tone from both Washington and Tehran. Trump has indicated a willingness to engage in talks, while Iranian officials have signaled a readiness to communicate, though maintaining a firm stance on core principles. According to Reuters, Iranian officials have stated that communication channels with the U.S. Remain open. This contrasts with earlier, more confrontational rhetoric from both sides.
The change in tone from the Trump administration follows a period of heightened tensions, including a series of incidents in the Persian Gulf and increased U.S. Military presence in the region. Al Jazeera reported that Trump appeared to soften his rhetoric after recent threats from Iran. The Iranian government has also been grappling with widespread protests within the country, which have prompted a crackdown by security forces. Trump is currently weighing a response to that crackdown, according to reports.
DW.com reported that Trump expressed curiosity as to why Tehran has not “capitulated” to U.S. Demands. The Times of Israel reported that Trump stated Iran was “seriously talking” with the U.S. As Tehran seeks to avoid further military strikes. These statements suggest a complex dynamic, with both sides attempting to gauge the other’s willingness to compromise.
The Novel York Post reported that the U.S. Is inching toward war with Iran. The outcome of the upcoming negotiations remains uncertain, and the possibility of further escalation cannot be ruled out. As of Wednesday, February 25, 2026, no further details regarding the “sacred phrase” or the agenda for the upcoming talks have been publicly released.
