Iranian MP Claims Trump Quietly Pushed for ‘Managed Strike’ to Avoid War with Iran -

An Iranian lawmaker has alleged that former United States President Donald Trump attempted to project strength through the media while quietly seeking to avoid a full-scale confrontation with Iran.

Speaking in an interview aired on Iranian state television, Iranian Member of Parliament, Amirhossein Nabavian, claimed that prior to the recent indirect negotiations, Trump sent a message to Tehran through an intermediary country proposing a limited military exchange aimed at de-escalation.

According to Nabavian, the message suggested that the United States be allowed to strike two locations in Iran, after which Tehran would respond in a controlled manner, bringing the confrontation to an end.

“Before the negotiations, Trump reportedly sent Iran a message through an intermediary country saying, ‘Let me strike two locations in Iran—you respond, and then it’s over,’” Nabavian said.

He added that Iran firmly rejected the proposal and issued a stern warning in response, making it clear that any military action would be met with overwhelming retaliation.

“We told them that if they make even the slightest move, we will certainly inflict between 3,000 and 4,000 casualties,” the Iranian lawmaker stated.

The remarks underscore Tehran’s long-standing position that it will not submit to military pressure, even as it continues to engage in indirect diplomatic talks. They also paint Trump as publicly posturing for dominance while privately seeking an exit from potential conflict — a contrast that reflects the complex mix of media theatrics and back-channel diplomacy that has often defined US-Iran relations.

Neither the United States nor Trump has officially responded to the claims.