Trump Issues Ultimatum to Iran During Khamenei's Funeral
US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, stating that the United States will 'finish the job' unless Tehran agrees to a new nuclear deal. The comments come as Iran holds a funeral for its late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died earlier this week.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Trump said: 'Iran must reach a deal with us, or we will have no choice but to finish the job. They cannot be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.' The president did not elaborate on what specific actions the US might take, but the threat marks an escalation in rhetoric between the two nations.
Context of the Warning
The warning was delivered amid heightened tensions in the Middle East. Khamenei's death has created a power vacuum in Iran, with analysts suggesting that hardliners may be vying for control. Trump's statement appears to be an attempt to pressure Iran's leadership to negotiate before a new Supreme Leader is formally installed.
According to Reuters, the funeral procession for Khamenei drew millions of mourners in Tehran, with many chanting anti-American slogans. The late leader had consistently opposed negotiations with the US, making Trump's demand a sensitive issue for Iran's political establishment.
International Reactions
The warning has drawn mixed reactions globally. European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell called for restraint, urging both sides to return to the negotiating table. 'Diplomacy remains the only viable path forward,' Borrell said in a statement.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett praised Trump's firm stance, saying: 'Israel fully supports the US position. Iran must not be allowed to acquire nuclear capabilities.' Bennett added that Israel is prepared to coordinate with Washington on any necessary measures.
Impact on Nuclear Talks
The ultimatum comes as international efforts to revive the 2015 Iran nuclear deal remain stalled. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) has been in jeopardy since the US withdrew in 2018 under Trump's first term. Iran has since enriched uranium to near-weapons-grade levels, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian responded defiantly, stating: 'Iran will not bow to threats. Our nuclear program is peaceful, and we will continue our path regardless of US pressure.' The statement was released by state media shortly after Trump's comments.
What Happens Next
With Khamenei's funeral ongoing, Iran's political future remains uncertain. The Assembly of Experts is expected to select a new Supreme Leader within weeks. Trump's warning may be aimed at influencing that selection process, as candidates with more moderate views could be more open to negotiations.
Analysts suggest that the window for diplomacy is closing. 'If the US follows through on its threat, we could see a military confrontation,' said Dr. Farideh Farhi, a Middle East expert at the University of Hawaii. 'But both sides have much to lose, so a last-minute deal cannot be ruled out.'
