Trump Issues 10-15 Day Ultimatum to Iran on Nuclear Deal Amid Massive US Military Buildup

President Donald Trump escalated pressure on Iran Thursday, stating the country has "10 to 15 days, pretty much maximum" to reach a new agreement on its nuclear program and ballistic missile stockpile—or face unspecified but severe repercussions.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said, “We’re either going to get a deal or it’s going to be unfortunate for them.” The warning follows months of indirect talks yielding little progress and comes as the US rapidly bolsters its military presence in the region.

US Military Escalation in the Middle East

The Pentagon has redeployed the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world's largest aircraft carrier, from the Caribbean toward the Middle East. This joins existing assets, including F-22 and F-35 fighters previously used in 2025 strikes on Iranian facilities during the brief Israel-Iran conflict.

Analysts note the buildup includes B-2 stealth bombers and additional naval groups, signaling readiness for potential action if diplomacy fails. Iran has responded by conducting joint military drills with Russia, rebuilding missile production sites, and intensifying domestic security crackdowns.

Iran's Defiant Stance

Tehran has rejected unilateral US demands, with officials accusing Washington of aggression. Iran's nuclear program—partially set back by 2025 strikes—has seen renewed concealment efforts, according to Western intelligence. Appointing war veterans to key posts and holding Persian Gulf wargames underscore Tehran's preparation for escalation.

The ultimatum revives memories of Trump's 2025 "maximum pressure" campaign, which preceded last year's 12-day conflict.

Broader Implications and Global Reactions

European allies express concern over the aggressive timeline, while Russia and China remain absent from Trump's newly formed "Board of Peace" discussions in Washington. The Board—meeting for the first time this week—has struggled with its Gaza rebuilding mandate and drawn criticism for including Russia.

Experts warn that failure to reach a deal could spark renewed conflict, disrupting global energy markets and further destabilizing the region.