US President Donald Trump confirmed on 20/2 that he is considering a limited military strike on Iran if no agreement is reached. When asked by a reporter at a White House press conference about this possibility, President Trump responded, "All I can say right now is that I am considering that possibility," without providing further details.
This consideration follows reports of advanced military planning. Reuters, citing two US officials on the same day, indicated that military plans targeting Iran were highly prepared. Options reportedly include selective attacks on individuals and even considering regime change in Tehran.
The Wall Street Journal reported on 19/2 that Trump was weighing an initial limited military strike designed to compel Iran to meet US demands regarding a nuclear agreement. This approach aims to exert pressure without triggering a major retaliatory response. The newspaper further detailed that, if approved, an initial wave of attacks could occur in the coming days, targeting military objectives or government agencies. Should Iran continue to refuse to cease uranium enrichment, the US might escalate the campaign with larger-scale attacks.
On 19/2, President Trump issued a 10-15 day deadline for Tehran to reach a nuclear agreement, warning of "really bad things" otherwise. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly declined to comment on potential US options, stating that "only President Trump knows what he wants to do."
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US President Donald Trump at a White House press conference on 20/2. *Photo: AFP* |
These developments occur as Tehran and Washington resumed nuclear negotiations on 6/2. Previous dialogues collapsed after Israel launched an air campaign against Iran, leading to a 12-day conflict in 2025. This latest attempt at dialogue between the two sides still faces significant obstacles.
Washington seeks to broaden the scope of negotiations to include non-nuclear issues, such as Tehran's missile arsenal. Iran, however, is only willing to discuss limiting its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. It refuses to completely halt uranium enrichment or negotiate on missile capabilities.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated on 20/2 that the US side had not demanded zero uranium enrichment. He anticipates completing Tehran's draft proposal in two or three days for Iranian leaders to review. This document will be delivered to US special envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff, potentially allowing Washington and Tehran to resume negotiations. Araqchi added, "Military action would complicate efforts to reach a deal."
Nhu Tam (According to AFP, Reuters)
