• President Trump is considering limited military strikes on Iran while negotiations continue.
• Iran's Foreign Minister indicates a draft proposal for a new nuclear agreement is imminent.
• The U.S. has significantly increased its military presence in the Middle East.
• Trump has set a timeline of 10 to 15 days for Iran to engage in a deal.
• Experts warn military action could jeopardize diplomatic solutions.

U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted at considering limited military strikes on Iran as a means to compel Tehran to agree to a deal regarding its nuclear program. Trump's statements have emerged amid a significant military buildup in the Middle East, which includes deploying two aircraft carriers, suggesting a capability for a sustained bombing campaign should he decide to act. The President has not yet clarified the exact objectives of any potential military action but has expressed ongoing interest in negotiating a deal, emphasizing, "The most I can say – I am considering it," according to Channel News Asia and South China Morning Post.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that a draft proposal for a potential agreement with the U.S. would be ready within "two or three days" following negotiations in Geneva. He reported that discussions with U.S. officials did not demand zero enrichment but emphasized the need to ensure Iran's nuclear program is peaceful. The minister's remarks came as Trump set a deadline of 10 to 15 days for Tehran to reach a deal, intensifying the urgency of the ongoing talks, per BBC and Middle East Eye.

The Pentagon's military preparations have sparked concerns regarding their implications for diplomatic efforts. Analysts caution that any military action, even a limited strike, could destabilize ongoing negotiations and lead to a cycle of retaliatory actions by Iran. Barbara Slavin, a fellow at the Stimson Center, noted that military threats could deter Tehran from reaching a diplomatic agreement, which she pointedly stated would be “going to make them less willing to make a deal,” according to South China Morning Post and NPR.

As tensions escalate, Trump has faced pressure from advisors about the implications of military action and its potential to escalate into a broader conflict. Some, including former ambassador Susan Ziadeh, suggest that the considerable military presence could inadvertently compel Trump to initiate military actions despite claims of preferring diplomatic solutions. Trump's administration has provided a range of military options, including targeted strikes that may focus on key Iranian leadership, as discussed in Middle East Eye and NPR.

Despite the military options being on the table, Araqchi expressed optimism about reaching a diplomatic resolution, highlighting Iran's readiness for talks and potential confidence-building measures to reassure against nuclear weapon capabilities. This approach aligns with a narrative of cautious diplomacy despite heightened military threats, which reflects the complex duality of Trump's strategy towards Iran, supported by Channel News Asia and South China Morning Post.