Trump renews threat to attack Iran's Pickaxe Mountain, cites 'good' talks

Key facts

• President Trump threatened to strike Iran's Pickaxe Mountain and civilian infrastructure if a deal is not reached.
• Trump stated that 'good talks' are underway with Iran.
• Iran's foreign ministry asserted that the US cannot dictate the timing of war and peace.
• President Trump claimed Iran requested negotiations due to military pressure.
• Iran's IRGC intercepted six vessels attempting to transit unapproved routes in the Strait of Hormuz.

U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed threats to strike Iran's Pickaxe Mountain and civilian infrastructure, including bridges, unless Tehran agrees to a deal. Speaking to Fox News, Trump described ongoing negotiations as 'good talks,' while Iran's foreign ministry stated that Washington cannot dictate the timing of war and peace, asserting that any decisions would be based solely on Iran's national interests. Trump claimed Iran requested talks due to military pressure, but acknowledged that mediators' requests to give diplomacy a chance were being considered, though he would not allow talks to drag on indefinitely. The crisis in the Strait of Hormuz persists, with Iran's IRGC reporting the interception of six vessels attempting to transit unapproved routes. Oil markets reacted positively to the absence of new military strikes, with Brent crude prices falling, but domestic conditions in Iran remain strained. Iran-backed Houthi forces have also intensified attacks in the Red Sea.