Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Feb 19: US President Donald Trump on Thursday intensified his warning to Iran, stating that Tehran must agree to a meaningful nuclear deal or “bad things will happen,” even as indirect negotiations continue in Switzerland amid rising military tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking at the inaugural meeting of his Board of Peace in Washington, Trump said diplomacy remains an option but not indefinitely. “We have to make a meaningful deal with Iran. Good talks are being had. It’s proven to be, over the years, not easy to make a meaningful deal with Iran. We have to make a meaningful deal, otherwise bad things happen,” he said. He added that Iran must “join us on a path to peace.”
The remarks come as US and Iranian officials engage in indirect talks in Geneva aimed at easing the nuclear standoff. American envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have been holding discussions through mediators with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi to prevent further escalation.
Washington is pressing Tehran to dismantle or significantly curb its nuclear programme, arguing that Iran’s enrichment activities and stockpiles pose a proliferation risk. Iran has consistently denied seeking nuclear weapons and maintains that its programme is for civilian energy and research. It has also rejected calls to fully abandon uranium enrichment, calling it a sovereign right.
Despite the strong rhetoric, officials from both sides have indicated that dialogue is ongoing. A senior US official said Iran is expected to submit a written proposal addressing American concerns, which could determine whether negotiations progress toward a framework agreement or stall.
The diplomatic efforts are unfolding alongside significant US military deployments in the region. According to officials, Washington has moved more than 50 advanced fighter aircraft — including F-22s, F-35s and F-16s — along with additional naval assets and air defence systems to the Middle East, describing the move as a deterrent posture to protect American forces and reassure allies.
Iran has responded with military drills and warnings against any strike on its nuclear facilities, cautioning that such action would trigger retaliation and destabilise the Gulf region.
Analysts say the situation remains fragile, with both sides seeking to avoid open conflict but narrowing room for miscalculation. Trump’s comments underline his administration’s strategy of pursuing negotiations while maintaining visible military pressure.
US officials argue that previous diplomatic efforts lacked enforcement, while Iranian leaders insist that sanctions relief and security guarantees must be integral to any durable agreement.
With talks continuing and a written proposal from Tehran expected, the coming days are likely to be critical in shaping the next phase of US-Iran relations and regional stability.