US-Iran Tensions Escalate Over Nuclear Program

Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have risen as President Donald Trump expresses doubt about reaching a new nuclear deal, citing Iran's refusal to reduce uranium enrichment, which now exceeds 2015 accord limits. Trump accuses Iran of delaying negotiations and increasing aggression, while Iranian Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh warns that Iran is prepared to target U.S. military bases across the Middle East if conflict erupts. U.S. Central Command chief Gen. Michael Kurilla has presented military options to Trump and the defense secretary should diplomacy fail. The dispute centers on uranium enrichment, which the U.S. sees as a red line, while Iran claims its program is peaceful. In response to heightened risks, the U.S. has reduced embassy staff in Iraq and issued maritime warnings in the Gulf. Diplomatic channels remain open, but the security posture has intensified amid fears of escalation.