Trump warns of potential bombings if Iran does not reach a nuclear agreement.

In his initial comments following Iran's rejection of direct negotiations with the US, President Donald Trump threatened military action and the imposition of secondary tariffs if Tehran fails to agree on its nuclear program. 

In an interview with NBC News, Trump revealed that discussions between US and Iranian officials were ongoing but did not provide specific details. "If they don't make a deal, there will be bombing," he stated, emphasizing, "It will be bombing the likes of which they have never seen before." He also mentioned the possibility of reinstating secondary tariffs similar to those he enacted four years ago if an agreement is not reached. Trump's remarks followed a previous warning that "bad, bad things are going to happen to Iran" if they refuse to negotiate a new nuclear agreement. It remains uncertain whether his threat of bombings implies action solely by US forces or a coordinated effort with Israel. In response, Iran communicated through Oman, asserting that it would not engage in direct talks with the US under its pressure campaign and military threats, as stated by Tehran's foreign minister. Additionally, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reinforced this stance, noting Iran's policy of indirect negotiations while rejecting direct dealings with the US. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, speaking to Politico, echoed the need for a credible military option to thwart Iran's nuclear ambitions before they become a reality. 

Analysts suggest that Iran could be on the verge of developing a deliverable nuclear weapon, although Tehran denies it is pursuing such capabilities. Trump also mentioned potential secondary tariffs that would impact buyers of Iranian goods, as well as those from Russia, following an executive order last week targeting buyers of Venezuelan oil. During his first term, Trump withdrew the US from the 2015 nuclear deal that imposed restrictions on Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief and subsequently reimposed extensive sanctions. Since that time, Iran has exceeded the defined limits of its uranium enrichment program. 

Despite Trump's threats of military intervention, Iran continues to assert that its nuclear intentions are solely for civilian energy purposes. Recently, Iran has increased its uranium enrichment to levels well above 60% purity and has been accused of obstructing international inspections of its nuclear sites. The Islamic Republic has previously launched missile and drone attacks against Israel in support of its allied groups, leading to Israeli retaliatory strikes aimed at Iranian military capabilities. Military analysts and US officials suggest these strikes have diminished Iran's conventional military strength, though Tehran disputes this evaluation.

Times of the Israel