On Saturday, former U.S. national security adviser John Bolton warned that ongoing Iran ceasefire arrangements and a possible extension are strengthening Tehran’s position.
Iran Ceasefire Talks Seen As Boosting Tehran’s Leverage
In a post on X sharing a CNN interview clip, Bolton wrote, “The ceasefire in Iran, and the situation Trump has caught himself in, is extremely unsettling. Every day that goes by benefits the regime in Tehran.”
In the CNN interview, Bolton said the extended diplomatic pause is giving Iran an advantage as negotiations continue without resolution.
He argued that “every day that goes by from the ceasefire… removes further and further from any likelihood that we will again resume the use of military force.”
He described the situation as “very unsettling,” warning that the longer ceasefire arrangements and talks continue, the more strategic ground Iran gains.
Bolton said reduced pressure during negotiations weakens U.S. leverage heading into future nuclear discussions.
He also criticized the idea of extending the ceasefire, arguing that Iran benefits from any pause in pressure and that continued delays make it harder for the U.S. to regain bargaining strength.
Iran Negotiations Under Fire
Earlier, Bolton called the negotiations a “mistake,” said Iran was “buying time” and benefiting from continued diplomacy.
He said the ceasefire and talks were eroding U.S. pressure on Tehran and strengthening its position.
President Trump left a White House Situation Room meeting without confirming approval of a proposed extension to the ceasefire.
He had previously said he would make a “final determination” and set conditions, including blocking Iran’s nuclear weapon capability and securing open shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump also said Iran’s response to a U.S. proposal had placed the ceasefire “on life support,” calling it “the weakest right now” and criticizing Tehran’s demands as unacceptable.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
Recent Comments