Trump warns of consequences for Iran as talks continue under shadow

2026-02-03 - 08:05

US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning regarding stalled negotiations with Iran, suggesting negative consequences are likely without an agreement. Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump confirmed ongoing diplomatic talks but paired them with references to a substantial US naval force moving toward the region, framing a dual-track approach of dialogue and military pressure. The Dual Strategy of Talks and Pressure "We have ships heading to Iran right now, big ones, the biggest and the best, and we have talks going on with Iran," Trump told reporters. He added, "if we could work something out, that'd be great. And if we can't, probably bad things will happen." This statement follows his announcement last week of a major "armada" deployment and an urgent call for Iran to return to negotiations over its nuclear program. Türkiye's Central Role in Diplomacy Amid the heightened tensions, intense diplomatic activity is underway with several regional nations acting as intermediaries. According to reports, Türkiye, alongside Egypt and Qatar, has been central in facilitating contacts. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was in Istanbul last Friday for talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Furthermore, a potential meeting between US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Araghchi is reportedly being prepared for Istanbul this Friday, though plans remain fluid. Historical Context and Iranian Posture The current diplomatic push occurs against a backdrop of recent conflict and internal unrest in Iran. In June 2025, a major Israeli attack on Iranian targets, backed by Washington, prompted missile and drone retaliation from Tehran. Iranian officials have consistently warned that any US attack would meet a "swift and comprehensive" response, even as reports suggest an Iranian presidential order to resume nuclear talks has been issued.