On May 17, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump posted a warning to Iran on his social media platform Truth Social. Trump wrote: “For Iran, the Clock is Ticking, and they better get moving, FAST, or there won’t be anything left of them. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE!”
Earlier, Trump rejected Iran’s latest request to resume negotiations, calling it “completely unacceptable.”
Two days before the post, on May 15, while returning to the United States aboard Air Force One after concluding his visit to China, Trump was interviewed by traveling reporters. When asked whether the U.S. military would resume bombing Iran, Trump said: “I don’t want to say that. I hope we don’t have to. But Iran will never have nuclear weapons. That will never happen.”
Trump’s remarks suggest that if Iran refuses to compromise, renewed military strikes remain one of the options for the United States. He also explained his thinking on U.S.–Iran nuclear negotiations. When asked whether a 20-year nuclear restriction period would be sufficient, Trump responded that 20 years is enough, but strong guarantees must be provided. He emphasized that Iran must hand over all nuclear remnants and cease any further production.
Trump has previously stated that he hopes a deal can be reached that would preserve as much of Iran’s existing infrastructure as possible, avoiding further devastating strikes. His latest ultimatum comes amid repeated shifts by Iran on key terms of the agreement and delays in reaching a deal.
Success
You are now signed up for our newsletter
Success
Check your email to complete sign up
