US President Donald Trump on Wednesday issued a sharp warning to Iran, saying “they better get smart soon,” even as his national security team is reviewing a revised Iranian proposal aimed at pausing hostilities with Israel, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and postponing nuclear negotiations to resolve the conflict.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a non-nuclear deal. They better get smart soon.”
Trump posted a mocked-up image of himself on his Truth Social platform holding a gun and referring to a “non-nuclear deal,” and tagging NO MORE MR NICE GUY.”
The use of a provocative image reflects growing US frustration over stalled negotiations.
While Trump has not publicly said in direct terms that he is rejecting Iran’s proposal, US officials and media reports indicate he is unhappy with the plan and unlikely to accept it.
The proposal reportedly suggests reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending hostilities first, while delaying talks on Iran’s nuclear programme, an approach Washington opposes.
The US insists nuclear issues must be addressed at the outset, while Iran seeks sanctions relief and sequencing. This fundamental divide continues to stall progress despite mediation efforts led by Pakistan.
A temporary ceasefire agreed on April 8, mediated with Pakistani involvement, has held unevenly, with ongoing disputes over maritime access and continued tensions between US and Iranian-aligned forces.
At the same time, parallel fighting involving Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon has further complicated the regional situation.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has strongly rejected any direct negotiations with Israel, calling them a “grave sin” and vowing continued resistance.
European powers have urged Tehran to make significant concessions to resolve the crisis. France’s foreign minister said Iran must demonstrate a “radical shift” in its position for any lasting settlement.
