Donald Trump has warned Iran it now has “two options” — agree to a deal with the United States or face renewed military action — as tensions sharply escalate following threats from Tehran to expand any future conflict “beyond the region.”
Speaking amid stalled negotiations, Trump said the US could either secure a peace agreement or “finish” the war militarily if diplomacy collapses.
Iran Threatens Wider War
Iran’s powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned Wednesday that any new US or Israeli strikes would trigger retaliation far outside the Middle East.
In a statement carried by international media, the IRGC said:
“If aggression against Iran is repeated, the regional war … will this time spread beyond the region.”
Iranian officials also warned that future conflict would bring “many more surprises,” while maintaining that Tehran still has additional military capabilities it has not yet used.
Trump Says Deal Window Is Closing
Trump revealed he had been “an hour away” from authorizing fresh strikes on Iran earlier this week before Gulf allies urged Washington to allow more time for diplomacy.
However, he signaled patience is running out:
- Trump said Iran must move “fast”
- He warned of “another big hit” if talks fail
- US officials say negotiations are in their “final stages”
Vice President JD Vance also said the US and Iran had made “a lot of progress” in recent discussions, though no agreement has been announced.
Strait of Hormuz Remains Global Flashpoint
The crisis continues to disrupt global shipping and oil markets around the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply normally passes.
Iran claims commercial shipping through the strait is now operating only under coordination with Iranian authorities, while the US has continued pressure operations and naval activity in the region.
Oil prices remain elevated as investors fear:
- Wider regional war
- Attacks on energy infrastructure
- Shipping disruptions
- NATO and Gulf state involvement
International Diplomatic Pressure Growing
China and Russia jointly condemned renewed military escalation and urged all sides to maintain negotiations instead of restarting hostilities.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has intensified mediation efforts between Washington and Tehran, with senior Pakistani officials visiting Iran for emergency talks this week