SCN DESK US-Iran
Iran Says Armed Forces Ready to Respond as Trump Threats Cast Shadow Over Switzerland Talks
Iran's military has warned that it is fully prepared to respond to any threats from President Donald Trump, underscoring the fragile state of negotiations as U.S. and Iranian officials continue high-stakes talks in Switzerland.
The warning comes as Vice President JD Vance leads the American delegation in Bürgenstock, where negotiators are attempting to transform a preliminary memorandum of understanding into a broader peace agreement covering Iran's nuclear program, sanctions relief, regional security, and the future of the Strait of Hormuz.
Tensions escalated after Trump issued fresh warnings against Tehran, threatening severe consequences if Iran attempts to close the Strait of Hormuz or continues supporting regional proxy groups. Iranian officials viewed the remarks as undermining the diplomatic process, with reports indicating that Iranian negotiators briefly suspended direct discussions before returning through mediator-led channels.
A major point of contention remains the status of the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian authorities and military-linked sources have issued conflicting statements in recent days, while U.S. officials insist maritime traffic continues despite reduced shipping activity. The dispute has created uncertainty in global energy markets and remains one of the most sensitive issues on the negotiating table.
Lebanon has also emerged as a critical obstacle. Tehran argues that continued Israeli military operations in Lebanon violate the spirit of the peace framework and has linked broader progress in negotiations to developments on the Israel-Hezbollah front. Washington, meanwhile, is pressing Iran to address concerns over regional security and its support for armed groups.
Despite the tensions, both sides have remained engaged. U.S. officials say discussions are continuing into a second day, with mediators from Pakistan and Qatar working to prevent a breakdown in diplomacy. Talks are expected to focus on sanctions relief, frozen Iranian assets, nuclear inspections, and maritime security arrangements.