- Trump warned that failure to honor an agreement could lead to a return to bombing until compliance is achieved.
- The threat adds uncertainty to ongoing negotiations and could impact energy markets and regional stability.
- U.S. officials have not confirmed the status of any deal, and international reactions are mixed.
Former President Donald Trump escalated his rhetoric on Wednesday, stating that if the other party does not honor the agreement, "we'll probably go back to bombing them until they honor it." The comment, made during a private meeting with advisors, signals a hardline approach to ongoing talks that have yet to produce a finalized deal.
Negotiations have been fraught with setbacks, according to people familiar with the matter. The White House declined to comment on the status of any specific agreement, but a spokesperson reiterated the administration's commitment to diplomatic solutions. However, Trump's threat raises the stakes, with potential implications for crude oil prices and shipping routes in the region.
Brent crude futures edged up on the news, as traders priced in heightened geopolitical risk. Analysts warn that any military action could disrupt supply chains and trigger volatility. "Without a deal, the risk of miscalculation is high," said a geopolitical risk consultant.
International allies have urged restraint, while regional actors are recalibrating their positions. The threat also reignites debate over the effectiveness of coercive tactics in diplomacy. "This is not how you build trust," a former diplomat said, requesting anonymity.
Efforts to reach Trump's campaign team for comment were unsuccessful.
Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the timing of the meeting. It has been corrected.