The United States President Donald Trump has urged Iran to resume diplomatic talks, warning that the Islamic Republic is not gaining the upper hand in its ongoing conflict with Israel.
Trump also stated that the Iranian officials have indicated they want to talk about de-escalating hostilities with Israel as the two sides trade attacks and international leaders look for a way to end the conflict, according to USA News Today.
Speaking to reporters at the G7 summit in Canada on Monday, Trump said it was in Iran’s best interest to return to the negotiating table without delay.
He also believed that Iran is seeking an off-ramp because “they’d like to talk.”
“They have to make a deal, and it’s painful for both parties,” the president stated. “But I’d say Iran is not winning this war, and they should talk, and they should talk immediately, before it’s too late.”
The comments come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with both Iran and Israel continuing to trade hostilities. The US administration has repeatedly called for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy.
The strikes and counter-strikes began Friday, when more than 200 Israeli fighter jets struck dozens of military and nuclear targets in Iran, including top generals and scientists.
