The United States has warned that it is “more than capable” of resuming military action against Iran as negotiations over a nuclear deal continue to stall, with no final agreement reached despite weeks of diplomatic engagement.
US President Donald Trump has insisted that any potential deal must strictly adhere to Washington’s red lines, including a guarantee that Iran will never develop nuclear weapons. A White House official reaffirmed that position, stressing that Iran must be permanently prevented from acquiring nuclear capability.
According to US officials, discussions remain ongoing but uncertain, following a high-level Situation Room meeting in Washington where President Trump reportedly weighed his final decision on a draft agreement. However, no approval has yet been announced.
Pentagon officials echoed Washington’s hardline stance, with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stating that the US retains full military readiness should diplomacy fail, adding that American forces are “more than capable” of restarting operations if necessary.
Despite continued diplomatic exchanges, Tehran has rejected key US conditions, insisting it will not accept externally imposed demands. Iranian officials say no final agreement has been reached and dispute several elements of the proposed framework, including claims related to the Strait of Hormuz and nuclear material disposal.
The situation has been further complicated by recent military exchanges in the region and competing political narratives from both sides, raising uncertainty over whether a breakthrough is possible.
While Washington maintains that its priority is preventing nuclear proliferation, Iran has demanded the release of frozen assets and broader concessions before moving forward with any deal.
With tensions remaining high and negotiations fragile, observers warn that the standoff could either produce a major diplomatic breakthrough or escalate into renewed conflict in an already volatile Middle East.
