US-Iran tensions LIVE: Growing friction between the United States and Iran is clear as the US strategically deploys military forces to the Middle East, including two aircraft carriers, fighter jets and tankers, giving Trump the means to launch a major strike against Iran while pressuring the country to agree to a deal on its nuclear program.
The head of the UN nuclear watchdog is warning that a growing US military presence in the region could close Iran’s diplomatic window over its nuclear programme. The potential conflict could threaten oil supplies from the region, which accounts for about a third of global oil production, Bloomberg reported.
According to reports, the US may carry out airstrikes as early as this weekend, although no final decision has been made. The tight timetable is intensifying pressure on diplomatic efforts, with both countries feeling an urgent need to reach an agreement. Experts warn that a breakdown in talks could lead to a rapid escalation.
Trump’s ultimatum
US President Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum that the US must “make a meaningful deal” with Iran, stressing that the coming 10 days will be crucial in deciding whether a deal is reached. He described Iran as a “hot seat” at the moment, despite ongoing “good talks” between officials from both sides. In addition, Trump mentioned that his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, would serve as an “ambassador of peace.”
Iranian warning
Meanwhile, Amir Saeid Iravani, Iran’s UN ambassador, wrote a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the Security Council president on Thursday, warning that US bases, facilities and assets would be “legitimate targets” of Iran if the United States continued its military threats and attacks.
Evacuation Update
Amid escalating tensions, several countries, including Poland and India, have called on their citizens to evacuate the Islamic Republic.