Former President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran: if Tehran rebuilds its nuclear enrichment sites, the United States will respond with fresh strikes. Speaking to reporters in The Hague, Trump insisted that Iran’s nuclear ambitions must be stopped and that “any attempt to rebuild these sites will trigger immediate military action”. His remarks come at a tense moment, following U.S. and Israeli bombing raids on Iran’s nuclear facilities and a fragile ceasefire with Israel.
Trump also dismissed criticisms from intelligence officials, including his former Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, saying he was sure Tehran was closer to a bomb than they claimed . He framed the threat as existential—warning that Iran must choose diplomacy or face the full force of U.S. military power.
The timing is significant. Earlier this week, the Defense Intelligence Agency concluded that U.S. strikes had only delayed—not destroyed—Iran’s nuclear program, setting it back by months at best. Trump, however, played down these findings, calling them “fake news” and insisting the strikes were a “spectacular military success” .
Iran, for its part, has responded cautiously. Its nuclear chief said the program remains intact underground and will be restored as needed, while top clerics reaffirmed their religious ban on nuclear arms—though analysts warn Tehran may resume enrichment if pushed .
Trump’s hard line echoes the 2003 Iraq-era debates, fueling concern among those who fear a return to large-scale military intervention . Critics argue that without independent verification or clear terms, threats alone may not prevent Iran from resuming nuclear work—or could prompt retaliatory strikes disrupting oil supply via the Strait of Hormuz.
On the diplomatic front, parallel talks continue in Geneva and Oman, with European officials urging calm. But Trump’s warning complicates any progress. The U.S. appears to be pivoting back to its “maximum pressure” stance—tying leverage to both diplomacy and military readiness.
For now, Iran remains at a crossroads: rebuild and risk renewed US strikes, or pause and possibly win concessions. Trump’s message is clear—no coordination channel, no second chances. Whether this tough approach averts a nuclear Iran—or ignites another full-blown regional crisis—rests on Tehran’s next move.
