Trump Rejects European Iran Talks, Sets Two-Week Ultimatum Amid Israel Conflict

President Donald Trump has set a self-imposed two-week deadline for Iran to come to the negotiating table to avoid potential U.S. air strikes, expressing skepticism about ongoing European diplomatic efforts. Trump dismissed the recent talks in Geneva between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and European powers as unhelpful, stating that Iran prefers to negotiate directly with the U.S. and that Europe cannot effectively resolve the conflict between Israel and Iran. Despite Iran's insistence that Israel halt attacks before serious negotiations can resume, Trump found it difficult to ask Israel to stop, citing the current advantage Israel holds. European foreign ministers remain committed to urging Iran to engage with the U.S. to prevent nuclear escalation, but the prospects for diplomacy remain dim. Trump has emphasized Iran's progress toward nuclear capability as justification for his firm stance and dismissed assessments downplaying Iran's nuclear weapon intentions. The president's approach underscores a tension between diplomatic efforts and the threat of military action in the volatile Middle East conflict.