US President Trump Opposes Extending Iran Ceasefire Amid Talks Uncertainty

US President Donald Trump has stated that Iran has “no choice” but to participate in upcoming negotiations in Pakistan, emphasizing the potential for a favorable outcome. In an interview with CNBC on Tuesday, Trump expressed opposition to extending the current ceasefire, which is set to expire by the end of the week, citing the need for more time for negotiations.

The US president’s comments have raised concerns about the possibility of renewed conflict if talks fail to reach an agreement. Iran has not publicly confirmed its attendance at the negotiations, despite tensions over the closure of the Hormuz Strait and the US blockade on Iranian ports.

Trump stated that Iranian representatives will attend the talks, suggesting that a deal is within reach. He emphasized that the negotiators have limited time to reach an agreement, saying “Iran can get themselves on a very good footing if they make a deal. They can make themselves into a strong nation again.”

The US president predicted that Washington and Tehran would reach a favorable agreement, stating “I think they have no choice.” Trump also mentioned that the US military is prepared to resume hostilities, citing the need to target Iranian infrastructure.

Iran has responded to Trump’s rhetoric, saying it will not negotiate under threat. The two-week ceasefire has been successful in halting fighting, but disagreements over the Strait of Hormuz and Israel’s assault on Lebanon have raised concerns.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has led to a significant increase in oil prices worldwide, with petrol costs rising by more than 25 percent for US consumers since the start of the war. Trump emphasized that the US is in control of the strategic waterway.

Source: Al Jazeera