New Delhi, May 4 -- US President Donald Trump has said his primary goal in any negotiations with Iran is the "total dismantlement" of the country's nuclear program. He indicated a potential willingness to consider allowing Tehran access to civilian nuclear energy under strict conditions.

Trump was clear on his demand speaking with NBC News, "We don't want to have them have a nuclear weapon. It's a very simple deal. Total dismantlement-that's what we want."

Despite the hardline stance, Trump appeared to leave the door open for compromise, particularly in regard to peaceful nuclear development.

"I think that I would be open to hearing it, you know? Civilian energy, it's called," he said.

Still, the president warned that even peaceful nu...