Tensions between Washington and Tehran have reached a fever pitch as President Donald Trump admitted to considering a "limited strike" against Iran while setting a strict deadline for nuclear concessions.

Speaking to reporters at the White House on Friday (February 20), President Trump confirmed that military options are being weighed to maintain pressure on Tehran.

"I guess I can say I am considering it," Trump remarked when asked about restricted military action. He cautioned that "bad things" would occur if a "fair deal" is not reached within a timeframe he has set at 10 to 15 days.

Advanced Military Planning
According to reports citing US officials, military planning has reached an advanced stage. Potential operations include:

Targeting Leadership: Plans reportedly involve strikes on top Iranian officials.

Infrastructure Attacks: Strategic targets include security installations and nuclear infrastructure.

Regime Change: Officials suggested that a sustained military campaign lasting several weeks could be launched if President Trump orders an effort toward regime change.

The USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group has recently entered the Mediterranean, joining the USS Abraham Lincoln in the region. This represents the largest US military buildup in the Middle East in decades.

Iran's Response: Diplomacy vs. Defiance
In an interview with the US network MS NOW on Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the massive US military presence as "unnecessary and unhelpful."

Diplomatic Stance: Araghchi stated that Tehran is prepared for a "win-win" deal and is currently drafting a proposal to be finalized within two to three days.

Nuclear Claims: He reiterated that Iran’s nuclear program is peaceful and claimed that US negotiators have not formally demanded "zero enrichment," a point that contrasts with public statements from the White House.

Warning: Araghchi warned that any military intervention would only complicate the situation and push the entire region toward catastrophe.

Regional and International Reaction
Israel: The Israeli military is on "defensive alert," closely monitoring regional developments following last year's 12-day conflict with Iran.

United Kingdom: Reports indicate that Prime Minister Keir Starmer has reportedly declined a US request to use British bases for potential strikes on Iran.

Russia: Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has warned the US that an attack on Iran would be "playing with fire" and would destabilize the entire Middle East.