India, May 20 -- Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated sharply after US President Donald Trump warned that Washington could launch fresh military strikes within days if ongoing negotiations fail. He said a decision on action had been delayed to allow space for diplomacy, following requests from Gulf allies.

Trump said he had been close to authorising an attack but paused after being informed that backchannel talks, reportedly involving Pakistan-mediated discussions, were making progress. He added that the US could still move ahead with strikes "within days" if no agreement is reached.

Iran, meanwhile, issued a strong warning, saying it would respond forcefully to any renewed US military action and could open "new fronts"...