U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a fresh 10-day ultimatum to Iran, warning that the United States could launch military strikes if a new nuclear agreement is not reached within that timeframe.
Speaking at the inaugural meeting of a newly created Board of Peace in Washington, D.C., Trump said negotiations with Tehran must produce a “meaningful deal” or face consequences.
“We may have to take it a step further, or we may not. Maybe we’re going to make a deal,” Trump said, referring to stalled nuclear talks. “You’re going to be finding out over the next probably 10 days.”
While reiterating his desire to be remembered as a president who ends wars, Trump cautioned that “bad things” could happen if diplomatic efforts fail. He described Iran as a current “hot spot” but added that “good talks are being had.”
The remarks come amid heightened U.S. military activity in the Middle East, including the deployment of aircraft carriers, fighter jets and submarines to the region. Reports suggest potential U.S. targets could include Iran’s nuclear facilities, missile sites and other military installations if tensions escalate.
Recent negotiations in Geneva stalled after Iranian officials requested additional time, with little reported progress.
Addressing nearly 50 world leaders attending the Board of Peace meeting in person and virtually, Trump emphasized the economic cost of armed conflict. “There’s nothing less expensive than peace,” he said. “When you go to war, it costs you 100 times what it costs to make peace.”
Despite his calls for diplomacy, the president’s ultimatum underscores rising tensions between Washington and Tehran as the deadline approaches.