India, April 9 -- Amid rising tensions over Iran's nuclear programme, a national security expert has warned that the country could face large-scale bombing raids and the risk of a drawn-out conflict if it refuses to engage in direct talks with the United States. The warning came as US President Donald Trump threatened Iran with "great danger" if it blocked efforts to negotiate, Daily Express (UK) reported.

Trump said a direct meeting between American and Iranian officials had been planned for Saturday in Oman. However, Tehran contradicted the claim, insisting that any discussions would be routed through an intermediary.

"We're having direct talks with Iran, and they've started. It'll go on Saturday," Trump said from the Oval Office, add...