US-Iran Talks Continue Amid Mutual Warnings and Historical Tensions
Peace talks between the United States and Iran entered a critical phase on Sunday, as both sides exchanged warnings while negotiating at the Burgenstock resort in Switzerland.
US President Donald Trump issued a statement on social media platform Truth Social, warning Iran to stop what he described as its proxies in Lebanon from causing trouble. He referenced a recent US attack on Iran and said that Tehran could face a similar or more intense response if it did not comply.
“Iran must immediately stop their highly paid PROXIES in Lebanon from causing trouble. If they don't, we'll hit Iran very hard again, just like we did last week, only harder!!! President DONALD J. TRUMP,” Trump wrote.
Iran’s chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, responded firmly, dismissing the threats and asserting that Iran’s armed forces are ready to respond. “Do they not realise that if their threats had been effective, they would not have reached the level of desperation they are in today? We do not attach any significance to American threats. They would do well to be careful about their statements. Our armed forces are fully prepared to respond in a different manner. They can keep talking as much as they want; we are the ones who act,” he said.
Despite the heated rhetoric, both sides have engaged in dialogue. US Vice President JD Vance described the talks as a historic moment, expressing hope for a transformation in US-Iran relations. “The question before us now is how much more can we accomplish together? Can we turn over a new leaf? Can we change relations in the Middle East permanently? Or do we go back to doing things the old way, which is not our preference, but it's certainly very much something that can happen,” Vance said.
Sunday’s discussions follow an initial agreement signed by both countries last week to end the ongoing conflict. The US delegation included Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and special envoy Steve Witkoff. Iran’s team was led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. Pakistan and Qatar are mediating the talks.
The negotiations come at a time of heightened tensions, with both sides displaying military readiness. The outcome remains uncertain as talks continue.
