Trump Sets 15-Day Deadline for Iran Nuclear Deal, Signals Possible Military Action

U.S. President Donald Trump has given Iran a new 15-day deadline to reach a nuclear agreement, warning that failure to do so could result in limited military action.

The announcement follows a significant U.S. naval buildup in the Middle East aimed at increasing pressure on Tehran. Trump had initially set a 10-day timeline, cautioning that “bad things” could happen if Iran failed to finalize a deal. He later extended the deadline to 15 days. When asked whether he was considering a limited strike, the president replied, “The most I can say — I am considering it.”

The ultimatum comes after negotiations held in Geneva earlier this week. Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, stated that a draft agreement could be ready within days. He explained that once finalized, the draft would be submitted to senior Iranian officials for approval before being presented to U.S. negotiator Steve Witkoff.

Araghchi also pushed back against claims that Washington had demanded a complete halt to Iran’s uranium enrichment program. “We have not offered any suspension, and the U.S. side has not asked for zero enrichment,” he said, adding that discussions are centered on ensuring Iran’s nuclear activities remain peaceful.

Western nations have long accused Iran of pursuing nuclear weapons capabilities, an allegation Tehran denies, maintaining that its nuclear program is intended solely for civilian use. Iran is seeking relief from international sanctions that have weighed heavily on its economy and contributed to recent domestic unrest.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration has combined diplomacy with a show of military strength. The U.S. has deployed major assets to the Gulf, including the aircraft carriers USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford. The buildup follows U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities during last June’s 12-day Iran-Israel conflict.

In response, Iran has carried out military drills, including exercises near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route.

Despite escalating rhetoric, Araghchi insisted there is “no ultimatum,” emphasizing that both sides are working toward a swift agreement. Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, warned that U.S. bases and assets could become “legitimate targets” if Washington proceeds with military threats.

The situation remains highly sensitive, with the Israeli military reportedly on defensive alert as regional tensions continue to mount.