Washington: US President Donald Trump escalated his rhetoric against Iran on Tuesday, warning Tehran to “better get smart soon” as diplomatic efforts between the two countries remained deadlocked.
“Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a nonnuclear deal. They better get smart soon!” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. The message was accompanied by an illustration of Trump holding an assault rifle, captioned “NO MORE MR. NICE GUY!”
Where Talks Stand
Washington has held firm on its hardline position on nuclear negotiations even as diplomacy has stalled. According to the US Central Command, a naval blockade on vessels entering and leaving Iranian ports took effect from April 13, following the collapse of talks held in Pakistan. The move tightened control over traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
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Efforts to arrange a second round of indirect negotiations in Islamabad have not progressed. Trump cancelled the planned visit of the US delegation last weekend, choosing instead to wait for Tehran to put forward a proposal that could form the basis for fresh discussions.
Iran’s Proposal, Trump’s Rejection
US media reports indicate Iran has submitted a plan that calls for the lifting of the American naval blockade, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and an extended ceasefire to work through disputes over its nuclear programme. Trump is reported to have rejected the proposal. Washington has continued to insist that its core demands be addressed first before any broader agreement is considered.
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