US President Donald Trump on Wednesday warned Iran on Tuesday (April 28) to "better get smart soon" as efforts by Washington and Tehran to end hostilities appeared at a standstill.
"Iran can't get their act together. They don't know how to sign a nonnuclear deal. They better get smart soon!" the US leader posted on his Truth Social platform, alongside an illustration of Trump holding an assault rifle, with the caption "NO MORE MR. NICE GUY!"
America has maintained its hardline stance on nuclear negotiations with Iran, even as diplomatic efforts remain stalled. According to the US Central Command, a naval blockade on vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports came into effect from April 13, following the collapse of talks held in Pakistan. The move effectively tightened control over traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.
Attempts to organise a second round of indirect negotiations in Islamabad have failed to make progress. Donald Trump abruptly cancelled the planned visit of the US delegation last weekend, opting instead to wait for Tehran to present a proposal that could serve as the basis for renewed discussions.
US media reports indicate that Iran has submitted a plan calling for the lifting of the American naval blockade, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and the establishment of a prolonged ceasefire aimed at resolving disputes surrounding its nuclear programme. However, Trump is reported to have rejected the proposal, with Washington continuing to insist on addressing its core demands as a matter of priority.
