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... Why It Matters

Rising tensions between Iran and the U.S. have reignited concerns of the potential for military conflict. U.S. President Donald Trump and Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have escalated the tone of their remarks, intensifying the standoff over Iran's nuclear program.

Trump has reinstated his "maximum pressure" campaign, which has led to the reimposition of strict sanctions in order to weaken Iran's economy and stop its nuclear program. Iran has refused direct negotiations under pressure but said indirect negotiations were possible.

What To Know

In an interview with the Russian International Affairs magazine, Ryabkov said Russia opposed military strikes on Iran if Tehran refuses to agree to a nuclear deal, warning of "catastrophic" consequences, "especially if the nuclear infrastructure is hit."

Trump threatened to bomb Iran if it does not agree to a new nuclear deal. Tehran has rejected a U.S. proposal to engage in direct negotiations under "maximum pressure" policies.

"Threats are really heard, and ultimatums are also heard. We consider such methods inappropriate, we condemn them," Ryabkov added. ...