- Trump warns Iran must abandon nuclear ambitions or face escalation.
- Remarks signal renewed pressure on Tehran amid stalled negotiations.
- Markets eye potential oil supply disruption as tensions rise.
Trump Reiterates Iran Can’t Have Nuclear Weapon
President Donald Trump on Thursday reiterated that Iran cannot be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon, warning of consequences if Tehran does not curb its uranium enrichment program. “They can’t have a nuclear weapon,” Trump told reporters at the White House. “We’ll see what happens.”
The statement comes as talks over a new nuclear accord remain at an impasse, with U.S. demanding Iran halt enrichment and missile development. Iran has resisted, calling preconditions unacceptable. “Without a deal, the risk of military confrontation is real,” said a person familiar with the administration’s thinking.
Efforts to restart negotiations have hit a snag as both sides harden positions. The Trump administration has signaled readiness to tighten sanctions further, while Iran warns of retaliation. “We are not seeking war, but we will defend our rights,” an Iranian official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Oil markets reacted swiftly, with Brent crude rising 2% on supply disruption fears. “The geopolitical premium is back,” said an analyst at a New York-based hedge fund. “Any escalation could push prices higher.”
The standoff echoes Trump’s 2018 withdrawal from the JCPOA, which dismantled the previous deal. Since then, Iran has advanced its enrichment capabilities, now close to weapons-grade. A deal remains possible, but without one, Iran could be forced to negotiate under pressure.
Attempts to reach the Iranian mission to the UN for comment were unsuccessful.