In a significant escalation of diplomatic rhetoric, Donald Trump has declared that the United States will seek a “forever” agreement to resolve the long-standing conflict with Iran – even as American and Israeli forces remain engaged in military action against the Islamic Republic.
Reports suggest shortened timeline for Iranian decision-making
The United States intends to push Iran into agreeing a permanent deal to resolve the conflict, US president Donald Trump told reporters at the White House on Thursday.
“I want the best deal. I could make it right now … I want it to be forever,” Trump said.
On April 22, CNN reported that the US president was planning to shorten the timeframe given to Iran for making key decisions on its nuclear programme and on negotiations. The Washington Post also noted that Trump might pursue a deal with Tehran along the lines of the 2015 nuclear accord, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
On February 28, explosions were heard in the Iranian capital and several other cities across the country. Israel’s defence minister, Israel Katz, stated that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) had carried out a pre-emptive strike against Iran. Israeli forces had been preparing the attack alongside the United States for the previous four months.
Subsequently, Trump announced a large-scale military operation named “Epic Fury” against Iran, saying the action was aimed at Tehran’s nuclear and missile programmes.
Separate truce: Israel and Lebanon extend ceasefire
Separately, Israel and Lebanon have extended their ceasefire by three weeks, Trump announced on Truth Social on April 24. The decision followed consultations between the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors in Washington, brokered by the US president.
“The ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon will be extended for three weeks. I look forward to welcoming Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to the White House in the near future,” Trump wrote.
On April 17, Trump said he had forbidden Israel from carrying out strikes on Lebanese territory, adding that such attacks would not happen again. On April 16, he announced that Israel and Lebanon had reached a ten-day ceasefire agreement, adding that the US would work with both countries to achieve a long-term peace.
