Trump warns Iran as Middle East tensions escalate on day 80 of conflict
Diplomatic talks remain stalled as Israel continues bombardments in Lebanon and Gulf states report drone incidents.
US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, stating that the "clock is ticking" for Tehran to reach a deal to end the ongoing conflict. Speaking on his Truth Social platform, Trump emphasised that time is of the essence, citing reports that Washington and Israel may be planning air strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure.
"For Iran, the Clock is Ticking, and they better get moving, FAST, or there won’t be anything left of them," Trump wrote. He added that "TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE!" as the US-Israeli war on Iran enters its 80th day.
In response to the escalating rhetoric, Iran’s Ministry of Defence spokesperson Reza Talaei-Nik stated on Sunday that the military is "fully prepared" to confront any new aggression from the United States and Israel. The declaration comes against a backdrop of stalled negotiations between Washington and Tehran, with no immediate indication of a breakthrough in diplomatic efforts.
Regional security concerns have also intensified. Saudi Arabia reported on Monday that it intercepted three drones, following a drone strike on the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in the United Arab Emirates on Sunday. The incidents have heightened anxiety regarding the security of critical infrastructure across the Gulf region.
Meanwhile, Israel has continued its bombardments in southern Lebanon despite extending a ceasefire agreement. The persistence of military operations suggests the fragile nature of the truce, adding further complexity to the already volatile security landscape in the Middle East.
