US President Donald Trump has warned that the United States could launch fresh military strikes against Iran within days if ongoing diplomatic efforts fail, sharply escalating tensions in the Middle East as Tehran responded by threatening to open “new fronts” against the US and its allies.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said he had been “an hour away” from approving a new military strike on Iran before deciding to temporarily pause the operation following diplomatic intervention by Gulf nations. He stated that another US attack could happen “in coming days” if Tehran does not agree to a deal.
Trump also claimed that Iranian leaders were “begging for a deal” while insisting that the US would not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons. The remarks came amid growing pressure on the Trump administration to secure a ceasefire and stabilise oil supply routes in the Gulf region.
Iran responded with a strong warning, stating that any renewed American or Israeli aggression would lead to “new fronts with new tools and methods.” Iranian military officials said Tehran was prepared for broader retaliation if military operations resumed.
The latest exchange of threats follows months of conflict involving US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, retaliatory drone and missile attacks, and ongoing instability around the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.
US Vice President JD Vance said negotiations with Iran had shown “a lot of progress” but warned that the United States remained “locked and loaded” if talks collapsed.
International mediators reportedly see little progress in the current negotiations, with Iran continuing to demand sanctions relief, guarantees against future attacks, and recognition of its regional interests, while the US insists on strict nuclear and missile restrictions.
The renewed war rhetoric has already affected global markets. Oil prices have remained volatile, shipping insurance costs in the Gulf have surged, and several international airlines continue suspending or rerouting flights across parts of the Middle East.
Analysts warn that another round of direct US military action against Iran could further destabilise the region and deepen the global economic impact already caused by disruptions in energy supply chains and maritime trade routes.
