U.S.–Iran standoff intensifies as Tehran told to clinch deal or face consequences

U.S. President Donald Trump has warned Iran it has at most 10–15 days to reach a meaningful deal or face consequences, saying, “We’re either going to get a deal, or it’s going to be unfortunate for them.”

Tensions between Washington and Tehran have surged as the United States continues a military buildup in the region and Trump sets a strict deadline for a nuclear agreement. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said 10–15 days should be sufficient for Iran to strike a deal, warning that otherwise the outcome would be unfortunate for Iran. (The Times of Israel) He also suggested the U.S. might have to take matters further, reflecting a broader escalation alongside movement of military assets in the Gulf, including carrier strike groups and jets. (Al Jazeera)

In response, Iran’s envoy to the United Nations issued an open letter urging the Security Council to condemn recent U.S. threats, saying Tehran neither seeks tension nor war but would view all bases, facilities, and assets of a hostile force in the region as legitimate targets if attacked. (Al Jazeera) The letter also warned that the United States would bear full responsibility for any unpredictable and uncontrolled consequences, underscoring the risk of rapid escalation. The sharp exchange comes as the world watches whether diplomacy can prevail over the mounting military posturing.

With the deadline looming, global leaders, analysts, and regional actors face the prospect of either a sudden breakthrough or a severe crisis. Trump’s ultimatum and Iran’s counterwarnings highlight the fragility of the situation, and any misstep could quickly draw the region into conflict. Observers will be closely tracking whether Iran’s negotiators can deliver a deal within the window Trump specified, or whether the warning will mark the start of a more confrontational phase that could have wide-reaching implications for international security.

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