KABUL (Pajhwok): US President Donald Trump has called on Iran to come to the negotiating table over a nuclear deal and warned that if talks do not occur, the next US strike could be very severe, amid escalating regional tensions and international concern.
Trump urged Iran to engage in negotiations on a nuclear agreement; otherwise, he said, the next US military action would be “far worse” than previous responses.
He wrote on social media: “I hope Iran comes to the negotiating table as soon as possible to discuss a fair and equitable agreement—without nuclear weapons—a deal that benefits all sides. Time is running out, and this issue is truly vital.”
Trump also said that US warships, including a carrier strike group, are heading toward Iran.
According to Iranian state media, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated there has been no recent contact with US special envoy Steve Witkoff, and that Iran has not requested any talks.
He said that negotiations cannot proceed “in an atmosphere of threats” and that Tehran would respond forcefully to any US military operation.
Araqchi added that some countries are attempting to mediate and that Tehran remains in contact with them.
Iranian officials had previously warned that if the US strikes again, Tehran would respond strongly.
Trump’s latest statements come as the United Nations has expressed concern over increased military tensions in the region linked to the US deployment of naval forces and the rising threat of conflict.
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said at a press briefing: “We are clearly seeing reports of increased military tensions, which are indeed concerning.”
Overall, the recent US actions, prior warnings from Iran, and the UN’s concern indicate that tensions in the region have risen again. The direction of upcoming developments will show where the situation is heading.
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