U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stark ultimatum to Iran, saying Tehran has about 10 to 15 days to agree to a nuclear deal or face unspecified but potent consequences — including potential military action — if diplomatic efforts fail.

Speaking at the inaugural meeting of his so-called “Board of Peace” in Washington, D.C., Trump said negotiations with Iran were making some progress but stressed that Iran must make a “meaningful deal” over its nuclear program or risk further escalation. “Otherwise bad things happen,” Trump told reporters. “You’re going to be finding out over the next probably 10 days.”

The prospective deal concerns Iran’s nuclear enrichment program, which U.S. officials fear could move closer to weapons-grade capability. The United States has also pressed Tehran to curb its ballistic missile development, reduce support for regional proxies, and dial back its regional influence in exchange for sanctions relief — demands that Tehran has so far rejected outright.

Military Posture Escalates

As Trump’s ultimatum reverberates, the U.S. has been massively increasing its military presence in the region, deploying multiple aircraft carriers, warships, fighter jets, and other assets in what analysts describe as the biggest buildup since the Iraq War.

The forward deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford and the USS Abraham Lincoln strike groups — along with fighter squadrons and support aircraft — underlines U.S. readiness for military options if diplomacy collapses. The scale of these forces has raised alarms among global markets and analysts, contributing to rising oil prices on fears of disruption in the oil-rich Middle East.

Iran’s Response and Defiance

In Tehran, Iranian officials have firmly rejected Washington’s threats. Iran’s leaders insist its nuclear activities are purely peaceful and have repeatedly stated they will not abandon enrichment. In recent days, Tehran has both fortified key military installations and coordinated joint naval exercises with Russia in the Sea of Oman — moves interpreted as both a show of strength and a deterrent against U.S. action.

Tehran has warned that any U.S. attack would be met with “decisive” retaliation against American forces and allies in the region. Some nations, like Poland, have even advised their citizens to evacuate Iran amid fears the standoff could become explosive.

Global Reactions and Risks

Russia has publicly urged restraint, warning that the situation could escalate into an “unprecedented” crisis if diplomatic channels break down. Moscow has emphasized the need for negotiations to avoid a broader conflict, even as it participates in naval drills with Iran.

Middle Eastern governments are also watching nervously. Arab states — including some U.S. allies — are concerned that military action against Iran could destabilize the entire region, disrupt energy supplies, and draw in multiple powers.

Diplomacy and Deadlines

Despite the military standoff, the United States and Iran have engaged in indirect talks in Geneva and Oman in recent weeks. While negotiators have made some limited headway on “guiding principles,” key sticking points remain unresolved. U.S. officials say Iran must commit to concrete steps on nuclear restrictions — and possibly more — before sanctions relief or a formal deal can be reached.

Trump’s ultimatum puts intense pressure on both sides, with the world watching to see whether diplomacy prevails or military confrontation looms.

Sources: BBC, CNN, Al Jazeera