Naval Buildup Intensifies as Deadline Pressure Mounts
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump said Friday he is considering a limited military strike on Iran after ordering a significant naval buildup in the Middle East to pressure Tehran into curbing its nuclear programme.
“The most I can say — I am considering it,” Trump told reporters when asked about potential military action. Earlier, he warned that “bad things” would happen if Iran failed to reach an agreement within 10 days, later extending the deadline to 15.
The remarks followed negotiations in Geneva this week, where US and Iranian officials agreed to exchange draft proposals. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran would finalize its draft within days and submit it to US envoy Steve Witkoff after leadership approval.
Dispute Over Enrichment as Sanctions Weigh on Tehran
However, Araghchi rejected claims that Washington demanded zero uranium enrichment. “There is no ultimatum,” he said, adding that both sides seek a fast deal. He emphasized that discussions focus on ensuring Iran’s nuclear programme remains peaceful.
Trump and other US officials have repeatedly insisted Iran must not enrich uranium at any level. Western governments accuse Tehran of seeking nuclear weapons, a charge Iran denies while defending enrichment for civilian use.
Meanwhile, Washington has deployed two aircraft carriers — the USS Abraham Lincoln and the Gerald Ford — to the region. In response, Iran conducted naval drills near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s UN ambassador warned that US bases would become “legitimate targets” if attacked.
Economic sanctions continue to strain Iran’s economy, fueling recent protests and government crackdowns. As military posturing escalates, both sides balance diplomacy with force, raising concerns over broader regional stability.
