Trump Instructs Negotiators Not to Rush Iran Deal Amidst Ongoing Talks

Washington. US President Donald Trump has instructed his negotiators not to rush into a deal during the ongoing talks with Iran. Trump's statement came out amidst reports that Iran and the US are close to reaching a settlement.

According to US media, the discussions between the two countries include points such as extending the ceasefire by 60 days, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and advancing further talks on Iran's nuclear program. President Trump posted on social media stating that although the talks are progressing constructively, both sides should take sufficient time to conclude them properly. Just last Saturday, Trump had said that a deal had been reached on most points, leading to speculation that a formal announcement could be made soon.

Iranian media, however, reported that disagreement still remains on one or two points in the potential agreement. Iranian officials have also indicated progress in the weekend's talks, but Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei clarified that progress does not necessarily mean a deal has been reached on the main issues.

There is division within the US Republican Party regarding the proposed agreement. Some leaders have publicly criticized the deal as being too lenient towards Iran.

Senator Ted Cruz called the potential deal a catastrophic mistake, while Roger Wicker, Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, claimed that a 60-day ceasefire would render all achievements made through 'Operation Epic Fury' futile. However, Mike Lawler, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, defended the Trump administration, stating that it has forced the Iranian regime to the negotiating table.

Tensions in West Asia escalated significantly after the US and Israel launched widespread airstrikes on Iran on February 28. In response, Iran also attacked Israel and US allies in the Gulf region. Later, a ceasefire agreement was reached in April to facilitate talks, which has largely been adhered to so far, despite some minor skirmishes.

Posting on Truth Social on Sunday, Trump said, 'The talks are proceeding in an orderly and constructive manner, and I have instructed my representatives not to rush into a deal because time is on our side. Both sides must take their time and conclude this properly, there should be no mistakes.' Trump also mentioned that Iran must understand that it cannot develop nuclear weapons. While the US and Israel, along with other Western countries, suspect Iran of trying to develop nuclear weapons, Tehran has consistently claimed that its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes.