• Trump is contemplating a limited military strike on Iran amid nuclear negotiations.
• Iran's foreign minister expects to present a draft counterproposal soon.
• The U.S. military has increased its presence in the Middle East.
• Trump issued a warning to Iran to reach a deal within 10-15 days.
• Negotiations are complicated by Iran's insistence on maintaining uranium enrichment.

U.S. President Donald Trump is considering a limited military strike on Iran if a nuclear deal is not reached within a specified deadline of 10 to 15 days. This consideration follows his recent statements that Iran would face "really bad things" if it fails to negotiate a meaningful agreement with Washington. Trump has significantly ramped up U.S. military presence in the Middle East, signaling an increased readiness for potential military action as tensions escalate between the two nations, according to BBC and CBS News.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that the country is preparing a draft counterproposal that could be ready in the coming days. He emphasized that the negotiations would not involve suspending uranium enrichment, contrary to U.S. demands. Instead, Iran is focused on creating "confidence-building measures" that would ensure its nuclear program remains peaceful. This announcement follows Trump's ultimatum and reflects the complexities of the ongoing discussions between Tehran and Washington, as noted by Reuters and Channel News Asia.

As both sides navigate this fraught diplomatic landscape, U.S. military officials are reportedly preparing options for a possible strike that could include targeting leadership in Iran. This military buildup has already seen additional aircraft carriers and fighter jets sent to the region, intensifying fears of a wider conflict. Trump's ambiguous comments about military action have led Iran to warn that U.S. bases would become valid targets if military aggression occurs, according to India Times and South China Morning Post.

The heightened military readiness and diplomatic rhetoric characterize a precarious moment in U.S.-Iran relations. As diplomatic channels remain open, both sides seem to be preparing for all scenarios, including military confrontation, while simultaneously expressing a desire for negotiation. Trump’s reliance on military threats contrasts sharply with longstanding aspirations for a diplomatic resolution to longstanding tensions, reflecting the complexities of current geopolitical dynamics, according to BBC, Reuters, and India Times.