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New American Deadline for Iran... Trump Hints at Military Option
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Continued progress in Iran's nuclear program according to International Atomic Energy Agency reports may push Washington and Tel Aviv to take more stringent measures
An American official and two informed sources revealed that US President Donald Trump sent a message to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, including a two-month deadline to reach a new nuclear agreement, in a move reflecting diplomatic escalation that threatens military consequences if Tehran refuses to negotiate.
According to the sources, it remains unclear whether the deadline starts from the moment the message was delivered or from the beginning of negotiations, but if Iran rejects the American offer, the probability of an American or Israeli military strike against its nuclear facilities will increase significantly.
Trump had previously revealed in a television interview with Fox News that he sent a direct message to Khamenei, offering the possibility of direct negotiations, indicating that the United States is in the "final moments" regarding the Iranian file. He added then: "We cannot allow them to possess a nuclear weapon. Something will happen very soon. I prefer reaching a peace agreement, but if that doesn't happen, there is another option that will solve the problem."
Stern American Message and Warnings to Iran
Two informed sources described Trump's message as "stern," as it included a proposal to negotiate a new nuclear agreement but warned at the same time of the dire consequences Iran might face if it continues its nuclear program without an agreement.
According to the sources, Trump emphasized in his message that negotiations would not be open-ended without a time limit, demanding a clear agreement within just two months.
Mixed Iranian Position Between Rejection and Hinting at Negotiations
In contrast, Khamenei described Trump's initiative as a "trick," considering it aimed at portraying Iran as the party rejecting dialogue. Nevertheless, after a few hours, the Iranian mission to the United Nations issued a statement that did not rule out the possibility of talks on the nuclear file, provided they do not target dismantling Iran's entire nuclear program.
The statement indicated that "if the goal of negotiations is to address concerns about any potential weaponization of Iran's nuclear program, such discussions might be considered." However, it emphasized at the same time that "dismantling Iran's peaceful nuclear program to achieve an American political accomplishment will not be up for discussion."
Growing Concerns About Iran's Progress in Its Nuclear Program
International Atomic Energy Agency reports indicate that Iran's stockpile of 60% enriched uranium is sufficient to make six nuclear bombs if enrichment is raised to 90%, increasing international concern about the possibility of Iran possessing military nuclear capabilities.
While Tehran confirms that its nuclear program is peaceful and does not aim to produce weapons, the new American escalation may push the file to a more dangerous stage, with limited diplomatic options looming against potential military escalation.
