Tensions between the United States and Iran are rising once again. In an interview with NBC News, former U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a sharp warning. He stated that if Iran fails to reach a new deal regarding its nuclear program, the U.S. will launch a bombing campaign. Trump also said the U.S. plans to impose “secondary tariffs” on certain Iranian products.
Iran’s Underground Missile Bases Go on Alert
Iran’s response came swiftly. On X, the Tehran Times released a bold message. They claimed that intelligence shows Iranian missiles have already been mounted on launchers in underground bunkers known as “missile cities.”
These underground facilities are part of Iran’s military infrastructure. According to the post, missiles are ready to launch at any moment. The Tehran Times warned that opening Pandora’s box could have devastating consequences for both the U.S. government and its allies. 
Trump Mentions Talks but Offers No Details
In a separate phone interview, Trump said American officials were “in dialogue” with their Iranian counterparts. However, he provided no specifics about the ongoing communication.
On March 28, speaking at the White House, Trump revealed that he had recently sent a letter to Iranian leadership. He expressed a preference for solving the dispute through negotiation. But he added a grim warning: if Iran fails to agree to a new Iran nuclear deal, the outcome would be “very bad.”
Letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader Sets Two-Month Deadline
According to U.S. media, the letter was addressed to Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, and sent earlier in March. Trump proposed a fresh round of negotiations to replace the previous nuclear deal. He also set a firm timeline, saying Iran had two months to respond.
Iran’s Position: No Direct Talks, But Indirect Channels Remain
On March 30, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian confirmed the letter had received a formal reply. He said Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had sent Khamenei’s response to the U.S. via Oman. The Gulf state has often acted as a diplomatic go-between for the two nations.
Khamenei rejected direct negotiations. However, Pezeshkian emphasized that indirect dialogue remains possible. Iran has engaged in such talks before. The Supreme Leader supports continuing this method. Pezeshkian added that the U.S. must first prove its credibility.
Iran Reiterates Its Conditions
Araghchi later elaborated on Iran’s stance. He confirmed that the official response was sent on March 26 through Oman. The message included Iran’s full position on both the nuclear issue and Trump’s letter.
He firmly reiterated that Iran will not participate in direct negotiations under military threats or what it calls “maximum pressure.” Nevertheless, Araghchi stated that indirect discussions, which have taken place in the past, are still acceptable.
