Former U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran is negotiating with the United States, despite repeated denials from Tehran in recent days.

Trump made the statement on Wednesday while speaking at the annual fundraising dinner of the National Republican Congressional Committee in Washington, D.C. According to him, Iran’s leaders are reluctant to publicly admit they want a deal because they fear backlash from their own citizens and possible threats from the United States.

He also described the situation in the Middle East as a military operation, claiming that the U.S. is weakening Iran’s capabilities. The Republican politician argued that Iran would have used a nuclear weapon against the United States without hesitation if given the chance.

Trump further said that without U.S. actions, global security would be at serious risk and the chances of peace in the Middle East could be permanently damaged.

Addressing concerns about oil prices, he maintained that the fluctuations are only temporary and defended the U.S. approach, saying it was necessary to eliminate what he called a “cancer,” referring to Iran potentially acquiring nuclear weapons.

“They are afraid to admit they want a deal because they believe they could be killed by their own people and the United States,” Trump said.