THE United States has intensified pressure on Iran to return to nuclear negotiations, with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth outlining a stark choice between diplomacy and confrontation as talks show tentative signs of revival.
Speaking to reporters at the Pentagon, Hegseth expressed confidence that Tehran would ultimately re-engage in negotiations and reach an agreement.
“they will return to the negotiating table and reach an agreement,” AP quoted him saying.
He reiterated Washington’s core objective of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, while emphasising a preference for a diplomatic resolution led by Vice President JD Vance and a team of negotiators.
“We are more inclined to do this the good way through an agreement led by the U.S. Vice President (JD Vance). He is a great leader and (the negotiations are also joined by) a negotiating team.
“Or we can do it the hard way,” he added.
Iran has consistently maintained that it does not intend to develop nuclear weapons, insisting its programme is solely for peaceful purposes.
Hegseth also delivered a direct appeal to Tehran, framing the potential agreement as beneficial not only to Iran but to global stability.
“I pray that you choose to realise an agreement, which is within your reach for the good of your people and the wellbeing of the world,” he said.
Earlier, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry indicated that both the United States and Iran remain open to continued engagement, even as discussions proceed cautiously.
A spokesperson, Tahir Andrabi, urged restraint against speculation regarding a possible second round of talks in Islamabad, stating that details concerning any prospective delegations from Washington or Tehran were “an internal matter of the parties concerned”.
The developments point to a fragile but active diplomatic channel, as Washington balances renewed engagement with implicit warnings of escalation should negotiations fail. - April 17, 2026
