Keith Self

Rep. Keith Self, R-Texas, expressed skepticism Friday that any imminent peace agreement with Iran would bring a permanent end to the conflict, arguing Tehran's leadership remains focused on regime survival and preserving its nuclear ambitions despite optimism from President Donald Trump that a deal could be near.

Speaking on Newsmax's "Wake Up America," Self said Iran's leaders have strong incentives to prolong negotiations rather than make meaningful concessions.

"I don't think so, because Iran will play this out as long as they can," Self said when asked whether a potential agreement could finally end the conflict.

"Remember, they've got two objectives: one is regime survival, and two is to protect their nuclear program … they will lie to the president. They will do whatever is necessary to keep playing this out."

Self's comments came as uncertainty continued to surround reports of a possible agreement between Washington and Tehran.

Trump has repeatedly said the United States is close to securing a peace deal with Iran and has indicated negotiations are advancing. However, Iranian officials have publicly disputed suggestions that a final agreement has been reached, saying significant issues remain unresolved.

The administration has maintained that preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon remains a central objective of any agreement. Recent diplomatic discussions have reportedly focused on Iran's uranium stockpile, sanctions relief, and broader security arrangements in the region.

Self, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, suggested Tehran's long-term strategy has not changed despite ongoing negotiations.

His remarks echoed concerns expressed by many congressional Republicans who have argued Iran may seek to use negotiations to gain time while preserving key elements of its nuclear program.

The Texas lawmaker has previously told Newsmax that Iran was in a "very weak negotiating position" as the Trump administration increased pressure on Tehran through military and diplomatic measures.

During the interview, Self also addressed the looming expiration of certain Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act authorities after the House rejected a temporary extension.

Self, who voted against the extension, dismissed concerns that the lapse would create immediate national security risks.

"No, it's not going to expire," Self said. "It will expire by congressional action, but it continues until March of 2027. The FISA court has ordered it by law. They are able to do that."

The congressman pointed to a previous lapse in surveillance authorities nearly two decades ago as evidence that intelligence operations would continue.

"And frankly, we have a precedent. In 2008, when it did expire, and yet it continued to operate legally," he said. "So no, it's not actually going to expire."

Self added, "Yes, the congressional authority did. The program will not. We will keep things safe and keep national security moving."