Overview
- U.S. media report the military could launch strikes as soon as this weekend if ordered, with the USS Abraham Lincoln in the region and the USS Gerald R. Ford entering the Mediterranean en route.
- President Trump set a 10–15 day window to decide on a deal and said he is envisaging a limited strike, as the White House argued there are many reasons to hit Iran.
- Indirect talks continue after sessions in Oman and near Geneva, with Iran’s Abbas Araghchi saying a written proposal should be ready in two or three days and that Washington has not demanded zero enrichment.
- Iran told the UN it would respond decisively and proportionately to any attack, declaring regional bases and assets of hostile forces legitimate targets, and it has showcased naval exercises in the Gulf.
- The U.S. build‑up includes at least 13 warships and dozens of advanced aircraft, Israel says its forces are on alert without new guidance, and the Wall Street Journal reported unnamed officials outlined more severe options under consideration.