Trump Warns Iran of Destruction Over Stalled Peace Deal

President Donald Trump warned Iran on May 17 that the clock is ticking and the nation faces total destruction if it does not quickly agree to a U.S. peace deal. The tensions follow a period of escalation that began with U.S. and Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026, followed by an indefinite ceasefire established on April 8 through Pakistani mediation.

Washington has issued a five-point ultimatum demanding that Iran transfer 400 kilograms of enriched uranium to the U.S., limit itself to one operational nuclear facility, and accept the retention of at least 75% of its frozen assets. The U.S. also refuses to pay war reparations for previous bombings. Trump recently softened one condition by suggesting he would accept a 20-year moratorium on nuclear enrichment rather than a total halt.

Iran has rejected these terms as one-sided, demanding the full release of frozen assets, the lifting of all sanctions, war compensation, and formal recognition of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran also insists on a total end to hostilities on all fronts, including the conflict in Lebanon. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi denied accepting U.S. conditions, while military officials warned that the Sea of Oman could become a graveyard for U.S. ships.

As diplomatic talks in Islamabad stall, Trump has accelerated consultations with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The Pentagon has reportedly prepared a list of Iranian energy and infrastructure targets for potential renewed strikes. The conflict has already led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, causing global oil prices to soar.