U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that American officials engaged in "all-day negotiations" with Iran, describing the discussions in positive terms while warning that Tehran could face severe military consequences if the two sides fail to reach an agreement.

Speaking to reporters during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Trump said the negotiations had continued throughout the day and expressed optimism about the diplomatic efforts.

"We had an all-day negotiation with Iran," Trump said, suggesting that progress had been made in the talks.

The U.S. president also said he expected the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategically important maritime chokepoints, to be "open very soon." However, he cautioned that if such an outcome was not achieved, the United States would respond forcefully.

"If that doesn't happen, they will be hit really hard," Trump warned, without providing further details about the nature of a potential military response.

Trump also claimed that the Iranian government had "begged" for negotiations, asserting that diplomatic contacts between Washington and Tehran are currently underway.

His remarks came amid heightened tensions between the two countries following recent exchanges of threats over security in the Persian Gulf and the future of negotiations.

Iran has previously rejected U.S. pressure, with officials warning that any military escalation could have far-reaching consequences. Iranian authorities have accused Washington of increasing regional instability and cautioned that further confrontation could trigger a wider conflict.

Mohsen Rezaei, an adviser to Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, reiterated Tehran's position in remarks carried by Iranian state media and reported by Israeli public broadcaster Kan.

"We will not allow a second corridor to be opened in the Strait of Hormuz, and any warship or military force that approaches it will be hit," Rezaei said.

The exchange of statements underscores the fragile state of relations between Washington and Tehran, as diplomatic engagement continues alongside sharp rhetoric and ongoing concerns over regional security. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global shipping route through which a significant portion of the world's oil exports passes, making any threat to navigation a matter of international concern. (ILKHA)