President Donald Trump reiterated severe military threats against Iran on Monday, warning of potential bombings if a deal is not reached before a fragile ceasefire expires Tuesday evening. These escalating remarks come as the status of ongoing U.S.-Iran peace negotiations remains unclear, even as a U.S. delegation prepares for potential talks in Pakistan.
Escalating Rhetoric and Threats
President Trump made renewed threats against Iran during a phone call with a PBS News reporter. The warnings suggest that significant military action could occur if diplomatic efforts fail before the current ceasefire lapses.
- Trump warned that "lots of bombs [will] start going off" if an agreement is not finalized.
- These threats follow earlier declarations, including a statement to Fox News on Sunday, suggesting that if Tehran does not sign a deal, Iran's bridges and power plants could be targeted.
These statements have heightened tensions with Iran, despite preparations for diplomatic engagement.
Peace Talks Developments
Simultaneously, a U.S. delegation is reportedly preparing for a potential second round of peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan.
- A source familiar with the matter told CNBC that the delegation "plans to travel to Islamabad soon."
- Trump confirmed to the New York Post that U.S. officials are reportedly "heading over now."
- The first round of talks in Islamabad earlier this month, involving Vice President JD Vance and U.S. Special Envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, concluded without an agreement after a 21-hour session.
- Trump confirmed that the same three officials are slated to participate in the second round of negotiations.
Iranian Stance on Negotiations
The participation of Iran in further talks remains uncertain, with conflicting reports emerging.
- Initially, a spokesman for Iran's Foreign Ministry stated at a Monday news conference that there were no plans for Iran to attend negotiations with the U.S.
- However, later reports, citing two senior Iranian officials, indicated that a delegation from Tehran was planning to travel to Islamabad on Tuesday for discussions with the U.S.
