Tensions remain high as Iran signals readiness for both diplomacy and military response.
Iran says its defense forces are on full alert and that any negotiations with the United States are being conducted “with finger on trigger,” highlighting the fragile state of current diplomacy.
Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani made the remarks in interviews with state media on Tuesday. She said Tehran does not want renewed conflict but warned that any new attack would trigger a stronger response than before.
Mohajerani also defended Iran’s negotiating team, saying its leaders understand both battlefield realities and diplomacy. However, she said she was unaware whether Iranian delegates had departed for Pakistan, where another round of expected talks has been widely discussed.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump expressed confidence that a deal would eventually be reached. In an interview with CNBC, Trump said Iran had “no choice” but to send representatives and insisted the U.S. remains in a strong negotiating position.
Trump also said the American blockade strategy had been a major success and would remain in place until an agreement is finalized.
Separately, United States Indo-Pacific Command announced that American forces boarded an Iran-linked cargo vessel, the M/T Tifani, during a maritime interdiction in international waters. Officials said the operation was carried out without incident.
The developments show that diplomacy and military pressure are moving side by side, with both sides sending firm public messages.
The latest statements come as previous ceasefire arrangements face uncertainty and fears of renewed escalation continue to grow.
For now, negotiations remain possible, but trust between both nations appears deeply strained.