Trump calls on Iran for a new deal and sparks controversy with a 10-day deadline
In a new escalation of political rhetoric, former US President Donald Trump directly invited Iran to enter into serious negotiations for a new deal, warning that “bad things” could happen if no agreement is reached. Trump sparked controversy by stating that the next ten days would be crucial in determining the fate of these potential negotiations.
During a speech, Trump emphasized the unwavering US position of preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, considering it a red line that cannot be crossed. He stated, "Iran cannot be allowed to have a nuclear weapon," adding that the time has come for Tehran to join the international community and work toward peace. He noted that "there is still some work to be done with Iran," affirming that his administration is working to achieve this despite the difficulty of the task, particularly given the challenging economic situation Iran faces as a result of sanctions.
Historical context: From the nuclear agreement to the maximum pressure policy
This call comes amid heightened tensions that began with the Trump administration's withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action – JCPOA) in 2018. The agreement, signed in 2015 between Iran and the P5+1 group of nations, aimed to curb Iran's nuclear program in exchange for lifting economic sanctions. However, Trump deemed it "the worst deal ever" and reimposed harsh economic sanctions as part of a "maximum pressure" strategy, seeking to force Tehran back to the negotiating table for a more comprehensive agreement that would also address its ballistic missile program and regional influence.
Importance and potential impacts
This statement carries significant weight on several levels. Internationally, it represents a continuation of Trump's approach, which combines threats with calls for negotiation, thus putting pressure on European allies who have tried to preserve the original nuclear agreement. Regionally, any development in US-Iranian relations directly impacts the stability of the Middle East. Countries in the region, particularly Israel and Saudi Arabia, are closely monitoring these developments, as they consider Iran's nuclear program and regional activities a direct threat to their security. Reaching a new agreement could reshape alliances and balances in the region, while the failure of negotiations could lead to a dangerous escalation that risks triggering a military confrontation.
