Former US President Donald Trump has issued a stern ultimatum to Iran, warning that the 'clock is ticking' for Tehran to present a significantly improved peace proposal or face severe military repercussions. Speaking to Axios and later posting on Truth Social, Trump declared, "They better get moving, FAST, or there won't be anything left of them," emphasizing the urgency with "TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE!"
Trump's warning comes as efforts to de-escalate tensions and secure a new agreement appear to be at a standstill. He indicated that if Iran does not improve its current offer, "they are going to get hit much harder" than before, reiterating his desire for a deal while asserting that Iran is "not where we want them to be." Last week, Trump described the existing truce as being on "massive life support," after reportedly rejecting Tehran's demands as "totally unacceptable."
US National Security Team Convenes
The former President reportedly met with his national security team at his Virginia golf club on Saturday to discuss potential military options. Attendees included Vice-President JD Vance, White House envoy Steve Witkoff, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe. Further discussions are anticipated in the Situation Room on Tuesday.
Iranian Demands and US Counter-Proposals
Meanwhile, Iranian media outlets have reported a lack of concrete concessions from Washington. Esmail Baghaei, an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson, described Tehran's demands as "responsible" and "generous." According to Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency, these demands include an immediate end to ongoing conflicts, specifically referencing Israeli attacks on Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, a halt to the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, and guarantees against future attacks on Iran. Furthermore, Tehran seeks compensation for war damage and reasserts its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.
In response, Iran's semi-official Fars news agency reported that Washington has presented five conditions. These reportedly include a demand for Iran to maintain only one nuclear site in operation and to transfer its stockpile of highly enriched uranium to the United States. Notably, Trump indicated on Friday a potential willingness to accept a 20-year suspension of Iran's nuclear program, signaling a possible shift from his previous stance of demanding its complete cessation.