Trump Issues Ultimatum to Iran as Nuclear Talks Stall, Global Tensions Rise
President Donald Trump has voiced dissatisfaction with the latest nuclear negotiations with Iran, warning that military action remains a possibility if Tehran does not agree to extensive concessions on its enrichment programme.
"I'm not happy with the fact that they're not willing to give us what we need. So I'm not thrilled," Trump told reporters on Friday following indirect talks in Geneva that concluded without a deal. While indicating he would give negotiators more time, Trump reiterated that Iran "cannot have nuclear weapons" and said "sometimes you have to" use force.
The talks, mediated by Oman, saw "significant progress" according to Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, who expressed optimism that a deal is within reach if negotiations continue. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also cited "good progress" but acknowledged remaining differences. Technical discussions are scheduled next week in Vienna.
The diplomatic uncertainty has prompted precautionary measures across the region. The U.S. Embassy in Israel authorised voluntary departure of non-essential staff, with Ambassador Mike Huckabee urging those wishing to leave to "do so TODAY." The UK temporarily withdrew staff from its Tehran embassy and updated travel advice advising against "all but essential travel" to Israel. Several countries, including Canada, China, India, Germany, and France, urged citizens to leave Iran or avoid travel to the region.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio designated Iran a "state sponsor of wrongful detention" and will travel to Israel on Monday for discussions on regional priorities, including Iran.
The U.S. has amassed substantial military assets in the region, including two aircraft carriers, in what analysts describe as the largest buildup since the 2003 Iraq invasion. Iran has vowed to respond forcefully to any attack, raising concerns about wider conflict.
Experts warn that Canada faces multiple risks from potential strikes, including terrorism threats, oil price shocks, diaspora backlash, and strain on NORAD. While Ottawa opposes military action, it has imposed new sanctions on Iranian officials and maintains no diplomatic ties with the Islamic Republic without regime change.
The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed it has been denied access to Iranian nuclear sites since they were bombed last June, calling the situation a growing concern.