Tensions between the United States and Iran are escalating as President Donald Trump threatens military action and economic sanctions unless Tehran agrees to a nuclear deal. In a tense exchange, Trump warned of bombings and secondary tariffs if Iran does not reach an agreement with Washington, intensifying the pressure on the Islamic Republic.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has rejected direct negotiations with the Trump administration, emphasizing that while Iran is open to indirect talks, any meaningful dialogue would require the U.S. to address past mistakes and restore trust. "We responded to the US president’s letter via Oman and rejected the option of direct talks, but we are open to indirect negotiations," Pezeshkian stated during a cabinet meeting in Tehran on Sunday.
The Iranian president's remarks come as a direct response to escalating threats from Trump. In an interview on Sunday, Trump declared, "If they don’t make a deal, there will be bombing," adding that the U.S. might impose secondary tariffs, reminiscent of sanctions from four years ago, if negotiations fail.
Barbara Slavin, a fellow at the Stimson Center and international affairs lecturer at George Washington University, noted the growing distrust between the two countries, pointing out that Iran's reluctance is justified due to Trump’s withdrawal from a previous nuclear agreement. As the standoff continues, the prospect of negotiations seems increasingly uncertain.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)