Trump Signals Possible Iran Attack if Talks Fail

Donald Trump said he is considering a limited military strike against Iran if negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program fail, setting a 10 to 15 day window for a decision that could reshape global markets and geopolitics.

“I guess I can say I am considering that,” Trump told reporters, adding that talks had been “very good” but warning that “we have to make a meaningful deal otherwise bad things happen.”

Military Pressure Builds

The remarks come as the US ramps up its military presence in the Middle East, signaling pressure on Tehran while leaving the door open to diplomacy. Officials say deployments are meant to deter escalation, though analysts warn the buildup raises the risk of miscalculation.

Iran’s UN mission has warned that any attack would trigger retaliation against US bases in the region, while Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has issued public threats suggesting American forces could be targeted if conflict breaks out.

Oil Markets on Edge

Energy traders are closely watching the situation. Oil prices have already risen more than 5% this week on capturing geopolitical risk:

US crude closed near $66.39 per barrel
Brent settled around $71.76

The biggest concern is disruption to the Strait of Hormuz, through which more than 14 million barrels per day of oil passed in 2025, roughly one third of global seaborne supply. Much of that oil flows to Asian economies including China, India, Japan, and South Korea.

Political Pushback at Home

The possibility of military action is already facing resistance in Washington. Lawmakers from both parties have warned the president must obtain congressional approval before launching strikes.

Representative Ro Khanna cautioned that war with Iran would be “catastrophic,” while Representative Thomas Massie said Congress should vote before any military escalation.

Diplomatic Clock Ticking

Trump’s comments suggest a dual-track strategy: threaten force while continuing negotiations. He indicated a final decision would come soon, telling officials the world will know “over the next probably 10 days” whether diplomacy succeeds.

Markets, governments, and energy traders are now watching the same countdown. If talks fail, the next move could shift from negotiation to confrontation, with global economic consequences.