Trump Gives Iran 15 Days to Strike Nuclear Deal as Tehran Warns of Retaliation
Iran has warned that United States military bases, facilities, and assets in the region would be considered legitimate targets if Washington follows through on threats of military action. The warning comes as President Donald Trump set a deadline of 10–15 days for Tehran to reach a deal on its nuclear program.
UN Letter Signals Iran’s Defensive Stance
Iranian Ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, conveyed the warning in a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the Security Council. The letter, seen by AFP, condemned what Iravani described as “belligerent statements” from the US and called for an immediate cessation of “unlawful threats of force.”
Iravani emphasized that while Iran remains committed to diplomatic solutions, any military aggression would trigger defensive measures against all hostile forces in the region.
US Military Positioned, Strike Possible
Reports indicate that the US military has deployed aircraft carriers, fighter jets, and naval groups to the Middle East, prepared for possible strikes. Sources suggest that a decision on an attack has not yet been finalized, but forces are reportedly in position for action in the coming days, with a possible timeline extending into mid-March.
The USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group is already stationed in the region, with the USS Gerald Ford en route. Dozens of additional fighter jets and refueling tankers have also been deployed. Simultaneously, some US personnel are being relocated out of the region to mitigate potential counterattacks.
Diplomacy and Talks Continue
Indirect negotiations in Geneva between US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and Iran’s top diplomat Abbas Araghchi are ongoing. While some progress has been reported, officials say key differences remain unresolved. Iran is expected to submit a written proposal to address the standoff over its nuclear program.
Regional and Global Reactions
International voices have urged caution. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned that any US strike could have serious consequences, describing the situation as “playing with fire.” Meanwhile, Israel is preparing for a potential joint operation with the US, according to multiple defense sources.
Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, intensified rhetoric on social media, posting a symbolic AI-generated image of the USS Gerald Ford under the sea, emphasizing the risks of escalation.
Stakes High for the Middle East
This latest episode underscores the delicate balance between diplomacy and military action in the region. With deadlines set and forces positioned, tensions remain extremely high as both sides signal readiness for potential escalation, while the international community watches closely.
