The White House has warned that Iran would be “very wise” to reach an agreement with the United States, as reports indicate that Donald Trump is reviewing potential military options against the Islamic Republic.
Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the president still prefers a diplomatic solution to the dispute over Tehran’s nuclear programme. However, she acknowledged that arguments for military action are under consideration, noting that discussions within the administration remain ongoing and fluid.
US media outlets, including CBS News, reported that Trump has discussed possible strike scenarios with advisers and has not yet made a final decision. Sources cited in the reports suggested that action could be taken in the coming days if negotiations stall.
The developments come as Washington strengthens its military presence in the region. Satellite imagery confirmed the deployment of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln near Iran, accompanied by guided missile destroyers and fighter jets. The USS Gerald R. Ford, the largest warship in the US fleet, is also expected to join operations in the Middle East in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, indirect talks between US and Iranian officials held in Geneva showed limited but notable progress. Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, said both sides had reached an understanding on key guiding principles for future negotiations, though substantial differences remain. Oman’s Foreign Minister, Badr Albusaidi, whose country is mediating the discussions, described the talks as constructive.
Despite these diplomatic signals, the White House indicated that significant gaps persist. Washington has previously insisted that any agreement must address not only Iran’s nuclear activities but also its missile development, while Tehran maintains that negotiations should focus strictly on nuclear issues and the lifting of economic sanctions.
Tensions have escalated alongside the military buildup. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, issued a warning on social media, suggesting that US naval assets could be vulnerable. In parallel, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps conducted maritime drills in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments.
The US and its European allies continue to express concern that Iran could be advancing toward nuclear weapons capability — an allegation Tehran consistently denies.
As diplomatic contacts continue, the situation remains volatile. The coming weeks will likely determine whether negotiations can narrow differences or whether the crisis escalates further.
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