Talks, not threats, would be good for US and Iran

US President Donald Trump just made his ninth offer to meet leaders of the Islamic Republic of Iran, saying he would meet them "anytime they want", with "no preconditions".

Trump's previous eight offers were refused, and for most people it seems this one, too, is likely to meet the same fate, as it comes before Washington is due to reinstate sanctions on Iran next month.

Teheran has indicated it has no intention of taking part in "one-sided negotiations" while under threat, and said the United States would have to return to the nuclear deal and reduce hostilities before it would consider a meeting.