Iran halts US talks after Trump threats; 'watch your statements,' says official

Iran has suspended its ongoing negotiations with the United States in Switzerland, citing new threats issued by U.S. President Donald Trump. The official Iranian government news agency IRNA reported that the Iranian delegation departed from the negotiation venue after a meeting with a Qatari intermediary.

The decision to halt talks came after Trump issued a warning to Iran. He threatened to resume attacks "with great force" if Iran did not prevent its Lebanese ally, Hezbollah, from causing trouble. In a separate interview with Fox News, Trump also cautioned Tehran against closing the Strait of Hormuz, implying severe consequences if such an action were taken.

Despite the heightened tensions, Iran's Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, initially downplayed Trump's threats, stating that Iran's armed forces were prepared for any U.S. action. He also advised Washington to "take care of their statements," asserting that Iran's actions speak louder than words. The negotiations, which had begun earlier that day with separate meetings involving mediating countries, were focused on implementing a recent memorandum of understanding, particularly concerning an end to hostilities.

Prior to the suspension, U.S. Vice President JD Vance, leading the American delegation, had reported "great progress" in the discussions.