Today in Focus Iran says Trump ‘negotiating with himself’: what next for war? - The Latest
4 snips
Mar 26, 2026 Julian Borger, senior international correspondent at The Guardian who covers global security and conflicts, breaks down US–Iran tensions. He outlines contradictions in messaging, contrasts the US 15-point plan with Iran’s five-point counterproposal, and explains troop movements, possible military timelines and Iran’s public defiance. He also touches on Israel’s role and the wider humanitarian and strategic risks.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Trump's Mixed Messaging Strategy
- Donald Trump alternates between offering talks and threatening escalation to both calm markets and pressure Iran to accept terms.
- Julian Borger explains this pattern aims to keep oil under $100 while forcing Iran to agree to an end on US terms.
Core Disagreement Over Enrichment And Sanctions
- Key negotiation gaps: Iran insists on the right to enrich uranium and wants full lifting of all sanctions.
- Borger contrasts this with reported US demands to limit nuclear and missile programs and control Hormuz navigation.
Troop Buildup Creates Pressure To Act
- Large US troop deployments serve dual purposes: reassure markets and create pressure to use force if talks stall.
- Borger notes history shows Trump tends to use amassed hardware, raising the possibility of weekend strikes.