Washington: The United States has issued a stern warning to Iran, threatening to impose severe sanctions if a nuclear agreement is not reached. US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright announced the potential for stricter measures against Tehran in an interview, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Secretary Wright, when questioned about the possibility of strengthening restrictive measures against Iran, expressed an expectation of very severe sanctions. He conveyed hope that these sanctions would compel Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions. The United States, he asserted, is determined to prevent Iran from possessing nuclear weapons.

Earlier this month, President Donald Trump sent a letter to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, establishing a two-month timeframe to reach a new nuclear agreement. Trump further warned of additional tariffs and the possibility of unprecedented bombing campaigns against Iran should the agreement be rejected.

Iranian President Masoud Peszekian responded by stating Tehran’s rejection of direct negotiations with Washington regarding the nuclear program. However, he noted that dialogue remains possible through third-party mediation. Supreme Leader Khamenei, while dismissing the likelihood of US military intervention, cautioned that any attempts to destabilize Iran internally would be met with a decisive response.

In a recent announcement, Trump revealed plans for direct negotiations with Iran at high levels, scheduled for the upcoming Saturday. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed preparations for a meeting in Oman, clarifying that these would be indirect negotiations.