Trump says new Iran negotiations starting: What we know | US-Israel war on Iran News
President Trump Suggests Imminent Negotiations with Iran
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WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump indicated Sunday that new negotiations with Iran are imminent, with discussions scheduled to begin Monday. However, an Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman dismissed the notion, stating, “We are not going to host a delegation or be guests of a country during these days.”
Returning from a weekend in New Jersey, Trump commented on the potential for upcoming talks and mentioned a previous plan for what he called “massive strikes” on Iran, which he decided to cancel. While he did not disclose the specifics of the talks, he asserted that the discussions would involve key issues such as the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s nuclear program.
When asked if there was a deadline for reaching an agreement, Trump refrained from providing a direct answer but expressed his preference for a peaceful resolution, noting, “I’m not looking to kill people because people die; a lot of people die, and we don’t want that.”
On Monday, Trump reiterated that the planned attack would have been the “biggest attack since World War II.” He characterized the potential deal as “imminent,” specifically mentioning its connection to the Hormuz Strait and denuclearization efforts.
Negotiations in Question
Al Jazeera reported from Doha that shortly before Trump’s announcement, an unnamed source suggested that mediators were prepared to travel to Tehran for indirect negotiations. The discussions may initially focus on Iran’s ongoing talks with Oman over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil transport.
According to the source, intermediaries from Pakistan and Qatar are expected to facilitate these discussions. However, the Iranian Foreign Ministry’s spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, emphasized that Iran would not host any foreign delegations during this period, leaving open the possibility of indirect talks via mediators.
Further reporting from Tehran indicated that Iran continues to engage in bilateral discussions with Oman, concentrating on strategies for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, with no foreign intervention anticipated.
Credibility of Peace Talks Undermined
Experts have expressed skepticism regarding the prospect of a peace deal. Trita Parsi, executive vice president of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, noted that Trump’s pattern of escalation and subsequent cancellation of military actions has undermined the credibility of negotiation efforts.
Alan Eyre from the Middle East Institute pointed out that Iran has opted not to engage directly with the U.S., citing a lack of trust in U.S. commitments. He characterized Trump’s previous promises to take military action against Iran as hollow, casting doubt on the likelihood of a nuclear agreement or resolution regarding the Strait of Hormuz.
While some analysts believe a preliminary arrangement concerning the Strait of Hormuz may be achievable, a broader agreement relating to Iran’s nuclear program remains elusive.
Status of the Strait of Hormuz Negotiations
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated Sunday that negotiations between Tehran and Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz are nearing completion. This strategic waterway, which has been a focal point of conflict, was largely affected following military actions from the U.S. and Israel.
In March, Iran had restricted passage in the strait after escalating military tensions. The Iranian government has since engaged with regional powers and countered proposals related to the strait’s future management.
Baghaei remarked that talks with Oman have seen “some progress” and are ongoing with both regional and international representatives.
Trump’s Strike Decision Influenced by Allies
Trump revealed that he called off planned attacks on Iran last week at the direction of key allies, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, who urged him to prioritize diplomacy. Following his announcement, oil prices dropped significantly, with Brent crude futures declining over four percent as the prospect of military action receded.
Despite the recent pause on military action, U.S. officials have reiterated their readiness to respond with significant force if necessary. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth echoed Trump’s sentiments, stating that the Pentagon remains prepared for potential military operations.
The situation continues to evolve, highlighting the complexities surrounding U.S.-Iran relations and the future of Middle Eastern diplomacy.
