US President Donald Trump said the interim agreement with Iran has ended. He added that he no longer wants to engage with Tehran. Moreover, his remarks followed renewed military action and stalled diplomatic efforts.
Trump made the comments before a NATO summit in Ankara. He spoke alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
Ceasefire Talks End Without Progress
The interim ceasefire agreement aimed to create a 60-day window for permanent negotiations. Pakistan had mediated the understanding between Washington and Tehran.
However, indirect talks held in Qatar concluded without any reported breakthrough. Subsequently, the US military launched another wave of strikes against Iran on Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters, Trump declared the agreement finished. He also used harsh language to criticise Iran’s leadership and dismissed further negotiations as a waste of time.
US Tightens Pressure On Iran
The United States also revoked a licence allowing Iran to sell oil. The decision followed reports that three tankers were struck by projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz.
Under the interim arrangement, the US Treasury had authorised the sale of Iranian crude oil and petrochemical products until August 21. However, the administration cancelled that authorisation on Tuesday.
Officials said Iran must wind down all related transactions by July 17. Consequently, economic pressure on Tehran is expected to increase alongside growing regional tensions. The latest developments further reduce prospects for renewed negotiations between the two countries.
