On Monday, former U.S. national security adviser John Bolton criticized ongoing U.S.–Iran peace negotiations, calling the talks a "mistake" that could weaken American leverage and allow Iran to regain strategic strength.

Bolton Slams US-Iran Talks And Ceasefire

Speaking to CNN, Bolton said he hoped the discussions "break down," arguing that both the ceasefire and the negotiations were strategically flawed.

"I think the ceasefire was a mistake. I think these negotiations are a mistake," he said, warning that the U.S. risks reversing pressure it has built on Iran.

Bolton claimed that Washington has already inflicted significant damage on the Islamic Republic and is now allowing Tehran to recover.

He also accused Iran of using diplomacy to stall. "They're stretching him out, they're buying time," he said, referring to Iranian negotiators.

The former security adviser criticized President Donald Trump's approach, saying he is overly focused on domestic economic concerns.

"I think he's looking at the price of gas at the pump," Bolton said, adding that Iran is taking advantage of U.S. urgency to secure a deal.