Washington, United States. President Donald Trump warned Iran it must reach a deal over its nuclear program within 10 to 15 days or face “really bad things,” prompting Tehran to threaten retaliation against U.S. bases in the region if attacked.
Trump deadline and warning
Speaking at the first meeting of his Board of Peace in Washington, Trump said negotiations with Iran to end the standoff were going well but demanded a “meaningful” agreement. He said, “Otherwise bad things happen,” and later told reporters aboard Air Force One that “10, 15 days” would be “pretty much maximum.”
Trump also referred to U.S. airstrikes carried out in June, saying Iran’s nuclear potential had been “decimated,” adding, “we may have to take it a step further or we may not.” He declined to provide further specifics beyond repeating his warning of “really bad things” and insisting Iran would have to make a deal.
Iran letter to the United Nations
In a letter to U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Tehran said it would not start any war but that “in the event that it is subjected to military aggression, Iran will respond decisively and proportionately” in exercise of the right of self-defense.
The letter said “all bases, facilities, and assets of the hostile force in the region would constitute legitimate targets,” and added that “the United States would bear full and direct responsibility for any unpredictable and uncontrolled consequences.”
Regional tensions and oil prices
Trump’s threats to bomb Iran, with the two sides far apart in talks on Tehran’s nuclear program, have pushed up oil prices. A Russian corvette warship on Thursday joined planned Iranian naval drills in the Gulf of Oman, described as a vital sea route for global energy.
Negotiations and official statements
Iranian and U.S. negotiators met on Tuesday, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said they had agreed on “guiding principles.” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Wednesday that the two sides remained apart on some issues.
What do you think the next 10 to 15 days will mean for the U.S.-Iran talks?
