Published May 30th, 2026 - 11:53 GMT
ALBAWABA - Tensions between Washington and Tehran rose again on Saturday after senior U.S. officials said military action remains an option if negotiations fail, while Iran accused the Trump administration of undermining diplomatic efforts and continuing pressure tactics despite ongoing talks.U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore that the United States is prepared to resume military action against Iran if necessary. “We have enough weapons in the stockpile and the operational capacity to continue military action in the future and also to honor commitments elsewhere,” he said.Hegseth pointed out that President Donald Trump is still working on a comprehensive deal to keep Iran from developing nuclear weapons, but warned that Washington is ready to strike if diplomacy does not produce results.The comments drew a quick response from Tehran. Iranian officials said Mr. Trump had abandoned diplomacy in favor of continuous coercion, and they said American measures ran counter to public pronouncements about decreasing tensions and seeking a diplomatic settlement.Iranian sources also denied any lifting of restrictions on marine traffic, saying Iranian ships still encounter warnings and limitations when sailing near critical waterways. Tehran said such ongoing enforcement actions raise questions about Washington’s goals and sincerity throughout the negotiations.The disagreement comes as the two countries try to develop a deeper understanding. Officials on both sides have welcomed progress, but several important impediments remain unsolved including blocked Iranian assets, sanctions-related issues and future arrangements on regional security and nuclear activity.Meanwhile, negotiations inside the White House reportedly continued over the weekend, with administration officials saying they were near but not final. Sources involved with the discussions said crucial sticking points are still being discussed, impeding a final breakthrough even though there are signs of moving toward an agreement.As the talks enter a crucial phase, the exchange of threats and allegations illustrates the fine line between diplomacy and confrontation, with the fate of any potential U.S.-Iran deal hanging in the balance.
