Trump Issues Ultimatum to Iran Over Stalled Negotiations
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday stated that Iran has delayed nuclear talks excessively and will now 'have to pay the price.' In a social media post, Trump wrote: 'Iran is all talk and no action. They’ve taken too long to negotiate a deal that would have been great for them, now they will have to pay the price!!!'
Iran Responds to US Strikes
Tehran announced it would reassess diplomatic engagement with Washington following overnight retaliatory strikes. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei accused the US of undermining diplomacy through contradictory messages and repeated ceasefire violations, also blaming Israel for breaches in Lebanon. 'Following overnight events, we need to re-assess (the diplomatic path with Washington)... any diplomatic process requires a minimum stable environment,' he said.
Escalating Military Actions
The US launched airstrikes early Wednesday against Iran, blaming Tehran for the crash of an American attack helicopter. Iran retaliated with attacks on sites in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan. Jordan reported shooting down five missiles aimed at the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base, which hosts US forces. Iran’s foreign ministry warned Gulf neighbors of their 'legal and moral responsibility' to prevent American and Israeli strikes.
Impact on Global Economy
The conflict, which began with US and Israeli attacks on Iran on Feb. 28, has shaken the global economy, driving up energy prices and making basics like food more expensive. A ceasefire in April has failed to yield a permanent deal, especially as Israel intensifies its campaign in Lebanon against Hezbollah.
Helicopter Crash and Drone Rescue
A US Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz after colliding with an Iranian drone, according to a US official. In a first-known operation, a drone boat rescued both aviators about two hours after the crash. Trump confirmed both crew were safe. The helicopters are key assets in enforcing a blockade on Iranian oil shipments.
Diplomatic Efforts Stalled
Despite Trump’s optimism, negotiations mediated by Pakistan remain deadlocked. The US demands Iran give up highly enriched uranium, while Iran insists on sanctions relief and release of frozen assets before a final agreement. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s army chief visited Pakistan to discuss Hezbollah, which thanked Iran for attacking Israel in defense of Lebanese people.
