Trump Warns Iran of 'Very Hard Blow' if Talks Collapse

President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Iran, vowing a "very hard blow" if the country withdraws from negotiations aimed at preventing it from developing nuclear weapons. Speaking from his golf course in Los Angeles, Trump emphasized the U.S. stance: "They cannot have a nuclear weapon. It's very simple."

Trump has recently intensified his rhetoric against Iran, while simultaneously asserting that discussions are underway to reach an agreement. He described the ongoing contacts with Tehran as Iran's "last chance" to sign a "good" deal. However, Iranian diplomatic sources have refuted claims of direct negotiations with Washington. These sources indicated that current discussions are focused on security guarantees for transit through the Strait of Hormuz, primarily involving Oman.

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If they back down again, they will suffer a very hard blow. They know it; they understand it. I have no other choice. They cannot have a nuclear weapon. It's very simple.

The primary objective for the United States, according to Trump, remains the "denuclearization" of Iran. He reiterated that the U.S. will not permit Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon. This warning comes amidst a tense period, following a June 17 memorandum of understanding intended to end a war and initiate a peace process. Cross-border attacks resumed shortly after, leading Tehran to declare the strategic Strait of Hormuz closed and prompting Trump to order the reimposition of a naval blockade off Iran's coast.

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The contacts with Tehran represent the 'last chance' for Iran to sign a 'good' deal.