The exchange of sharp statements between Iran and the United States intensified on Sunday even as diplomatic discussions continued in Switzerland aimed at de-escalating the ongoing four-month conflict. US President Donald Trump issued a strong warning urging Iran to restrain its allied groups in Lebanon, particularly Hezbollah, and to halt attacks on Israel, cautioning that failure to do so could invite further US strikes. In his remarks on Truth Social, he repeated his stance that Iran should immediately control its regional proxies or face intensified military consequences.
In response, Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf issued a firm rebuttal, advising the United States to be cautious with its language and reiterating that Iranian armed forces remain prepared to respond to any escalation. The comments reflected heightened tensions even as both sides remained engaged in indirect negotiations in Switzerland.
Reports from the talks suggested that the Iranian delegation briefly walked out in protest following Trump’s remarks, while also signalling that the continuation of future discussions could depend on developments in Lebanon, particularly the cessation of Israeli military activity. Despite the diplomatic process underway, both sides continued to maintain firm public positions, underscoring the fragility of the ongoing negotiations.
