US President Donald Trump told Fox News reporters today that an Iran nuclear deal would be "signed today" in Pakistan. It remains unclear what agreement or timeframe Trump was referencing, especially as US-Iran negotiations are not expected to commence until 22/4 at the earliest. Tehran has yet to confirm its participation in any dialogue with Washington.
CNN reported today, citing informed sources, that US Vice President JD Vance is expected to travel to Pakistan on 21/4 for the second round of negotiations with Iran. However, the prospect of these talks occurring remains tenuous, given the ongoing exchange of harsh rhetoric between the two nations.
The White House confirmed a US delegation would soon depart for negotiations, though specific timing remains undisclosed.
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US President Donald Trump at the White House grounds on 16/4. *Photo: AP*
President Trump also indicated he was considering the ceasefire agreement with Iran ending on the evening of 22/4, stating it was "very unlikely" to be extended without a deal. "I will not rush to sign a bad deal. We have plenty of time," he said.
Asked if he anticipated immediate resumption of hostilities should no agreement be reached, Trump affirmed, "I would certainly predict that."
On the same day, President Masoud Pezeshkian asserted Iran's "deep historical mistrust" of the US government, criticizing "contradictory, unconstructive signals" from US officials.
"Respecting commitments is the foundation of meaningful dialogue. Iran will not succumb to force," he wrote on X.
Since hostilities began on 28/2, the US and Iran have held only one 21-hour negotiation session in Islamabad, which concluded without an agreement. Preparations for further talks, however, continue.
The prospect of a second negotiation round has become increasingly fragile after the US destroyer USS Spruance reportedly fired upon and seized the Iranian-flagged cargo ship Touska in the Gulf of Oman on 19/4. The US justified the action by stating the vessel attempted to breach a blockade.
The Iranian military condemned the incident as "an act of piracy and a violation of the ceasefire agreement," vowing swift retaliation. Tehran also stated it had "not decided" whether to continue negotiations with Washington.
Ngoc Anh (*CNN, AP*)
