Trump accuses Iran of stonewalling Gaza ceasefire talks
US President Donald Trump on Monday expressed frustration over stalled efforts to reach a ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza and accused Iran of obstructing the negotiations.
US President Donald Trump on Monday expressed frustration over stalled efforts to reach a ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza and accused Iran of obstructing the negotiations.
“I think they (Iran) got involved in this negotiation, telling Hamas, giving them signals and orders. And that's not good,” Trump told reporters on the sidelines of a meeting with the United Kingdom's prime minister on Monday.
His remarks appeared to be the first blaming Iran for the continuing impasse.
The latest round of negotiations with the Iranian-backed Palestinian armed group in Qatar ended without results. White House Special Envoy Steve Witkoff cut his trip short and left on July 24.
“While the mediators have made a great effort, Hamas does not appear to be coordinated or acting in good faith. We will now consider alternative options to bring the hostages home and create a more stable environment for the people of Gaza,” Witkoff announced on X.
Trump said the United States remains engaged with the Gaza issue, including plans to ensure unimpeded access to humanitarian aid amid an escalating hunger crisis and initiatives to secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
'We'll wipe it out'
Turning to Iran's nuclear program, Trump warned that if the Islamic Republic moves toward any form of nuclear weapons capability, he will not hesitate to authorize further military strikes.
“They can start again. If they do, we'll wipe it out faster than you can wave your finger at it. We'll have to do that. We will do that gladly, openly and gladly,” Trump said.
Israel launched a 12-day military campaign against Iran on June 13, killing hundreds of Iranian military personnel, nuclear scientists and civilians. In retaliation, missile strikes by Iran killed 27 Israeli civilians.
On June 22, the United States entered the conflict by striking Iran’s nuclear facilities in Isfahan, Natanz, and Fordow using long-range bombers and submarine-launched missiles. The United Stated promptly brokered ceasefire between Iran and Israel which effect on June 25.
The Trump administration has maintained for months that it does not oppose peaceful Iranian nuclear activity but has demanded Tehran end domestic enrichment.
