Trump's ultimatum to Iran nears deadline with no agreement in sight

President Donald Trump has issued a clear ultimatum to Iran, threatening devastating military strikes if an acceptable deal is not reached by the deadline set for 20:00 Washington DC time on Tuesday. Trump stated, "Very little is off-limits," emphasizing the potential for significant destruction, including the decimation of every bridge and power plant in Iran within hours.

Iran has shown little willingness to comply, rejecting a temporary ceasefire and presenting its own demands, described by a US official as "maximalist." This situation places Trump in a precarious position; if no agreement is reached, he may be forced to extend his deadline for the fourth time in three weeks. However, backing down after issuing explicit threats could undermine his credibility as the conflict continues.

Despite showcasing American military capabilities, including a recent successful rescue operation, Trump acknowledged the limits of military power, stating, "We can bomb the hell out of them... But to close the Strait, all you need is one terrorist." He also expressed concerns about the long-term consequences of military action, noting that destruction would necessitate a lengthy rebuilding process for Iran.

Trump remains hopeful for a breakthrough, asserting, "We have an active, willing participant on the other side," while maintaining a level of ambiguity about the negotiations. As the deadline approaches, the potential for a significant escalation in military action looms, with both sides' positions remaining rigid.

What to watch: The outcome of the impending deadline and any potential shifts in Iran's stance on negotiations.