By Muhammad Mamman
Iran has ordered its officials to explore talks with the United States following a blunt warning from former US President Donald Trump that “bad things” could happen if no agreement is reached, signalling a possible thaw in long-frozen relations between the two adversaries.
According to Iranian state-linked sources, Tehran is considering indirect diplomatic engagement with Washington amid growing international pressure over its nuclear programme and worsening regional tensions. The move marks a cautious shift in tone after months of defiance and mutual recriminations.
Mr Trump, who withdrew the US from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) during his presidency, issued the warning at a recent campaign event, insisting that Iran must return to the negotiating table or face serious consequences. He did not elaborate on the nature of the threat but stressed that his approach would be “far tougher” than that of the current administration.
Iranian officials, while rejecting what they described as “threat-based diplomacy”, acknowledged the need to manage escalating risks. A senior official said Tehran was open to talks that respect Iran’s sovereignty and guarantee sanctions relief, though no timeline or format has been confirmed.
Analysts say the renewed rhetoric on both sides reflects heightened uncertainty ahead of the US elections and mounting concern among global powers over Iran’s advancing nuclear capabilities. European diplomats have urged restraint, warning that miscalculation could destabilise the wider Middle East.
While significant hurdles remain, Iran’s reported readiness to engage—however cautiously—suggests diplomacy may yet regain a foothold, even as sharp warnings from Washington keep tensions on edge.
