In a stark warning to Tehran, US President Donald Trump said Iran must agree to a nuclear deal with the United States within the next 10 to 15 days or “it’s going to be unfortunate for them,” underscoring rising tensions between the two powers.
Trump, while speaking to reporters, doubled down on serious consequences if negotiations falter, though he did not spell out specific military steps. “We’re either going to get a deal, or it’s going to be unfortunate,” he said, signalling a tight deadline.
The ultimatum comes against the backdrop of the largest US air and naval deployment to the West Asian region since Iraq in 2003, with additional carrier strike groups and fighter jets positioned. This has raised concerns among global capitals about a possible escalation should diplomacy fail.
According to multiple international sources, the build-up includes advanced air defences and dozens of warplanes, and the US military is reportedly prepared to strike Iran as early as this weekend, though no final decision has been made, reported CNN.
Trump, while addressing the Board of Peace earlier, said Tehran could choose to join the US on a negotiated path or face “a very different path,” stressing that Iran could not continue to destabilise the region. “They cannot continue to threaten the stability of the entire region … They must make a deal,” he said.
He suggested that Washington’s approach could escalate if talks fail. “Now we may have to take it a step further, or we may not. Maybe we’re going to make a deal. You’re going to be finding out over the next probably 10 days.”
Iran has not publicly accepted the term of the ultimatum. Meanwhile, the US demands include a halt to enrichment of Uranium and cuts to Tehran’s nuclear programme, positions Tehran has consistently rejected in past negotiations.
US military posture and Iran tension
The US deployment to West Asia, involving aircraft carriers, fighter jets, and enhanced defensive systems, is seen as part of deterrence aimed at Tehran, even as diplomatic channels remain open.
Military planners are said to assess options ranging from air strikes to broader operations if the diplomatic window closes.