Trump says US may destroy Iran as Tehran reviews nuclear proposals
Trump Threatens Destruction as Strikes Loom
United States President Donald Trump stated that the United States may have to destroy the rest of Iran, refusing to rule out further military action following the recent downing of two US reconnaissance drones near Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command was preparing for the resumption of major military operations while waiting on orders from Washington, according to Axios reporting cited by Al Jazeera. Concurrently, Iran is studying proposals related to its nuclear program presented by chief mediator Qatar, according to Reuters, as Tehran escalated its diplomatic outreach across the region.
Nuclear Proposals and Regional Diplomacy
Iran reviewed concrete proposals concerning its nuclear program, according to a diplomat with direct knowledge of the talks reported by Bloomberg.com. The diplomat told Bloomberg.com that Tehran showed a willingness to discuss atomic activities that were previously off the table. Qatar acted as the chief mediator for these transmissions. Any concession on the atomic portfolio could unlock negotiations that stalled following the June collapse of an interim peace deal, Bloomberg.com reported.
Tehran tied the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the resumption of broader peace talks to seven distinct demands, according to Al Jazeera. The government in Tehran granted shipping exemptions to specific nations, including India, China, Iraq, and Qatar, while warning Gulf states against hosting military assets used in operations against Iranian territory.
Moscow Supplies Supersonic Cruise Missiles to Sanction-Hit Iran
Relations between Moscow and Tehran expanded significantly since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, positioning both states among the most heavily sanctioned nations globally. Defense documents and production schedules examined by Al Jazeera revealed ongoing military coordination, including helicopter-mounted launcher orders and the supply of Shahed drones. Russia provided supersonic cruise missiles and Verba shoulder-launched anti-air systems to Iran in exchange, according to analysis from Nicole Grajewski cited by Al Jazeera. In response to the growing friction, Russia’s Foreign Ministry advised its citizens against traveling to Iran due to the persistent risk of renewed military escalation.
Diplomatic Outcomes Remain Unresolved
The diplomatic track hinges on whether Washington accepts the terms transmitted through Qatari channels or proceeds with the military options prepared by Central Command. Trump’s public assertion that the public will know soon enough if he acts leaves the timing of any subsequent strike entirely open. Iran is studying proposals related to its atomic activities presented by Qatar, while international carriers await word on the Strait of Hormuz.
