US Officials Advocate Unlimited Nuclear Deal with Iran as Tensions Escalate

Steve Witkoff, the US special representative for Middle East affairs, emphasized that any nuclear agreement with Iran must be structured to continue indefinitely without time limitations. Axios reported Wednesday that Witkoff stated in a private meeting the US government seeks a deal without temporal restrictions.

Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, has prepared a range of military options, including strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, according to CNN. He warned in closed-door Pentagon sessions about the operational complexities, potential scope of conflict, and risk of US casualties.

Vice President JD Vance said President Donald Trump prefers a diplomatic solution and hopes Tehran takes seriously the scheduled Thursday talks in Geneva. Vance stressed Washington's ultimate goal is to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, either through diplomacy or military means if necessary.

In a speech to Congress, Trump warned he would not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons, citing its nuclear and missile programs, support for armed groups, and repression of protesters as threats to US and regional stability. Reuters reported Trump accused Tehran of resuming parts of its nuclear program and developing missiles capable of reaching US territory. Iranian state media claimed advancements in missiles able to target North America.

These developments coincide with increased US military deployments, including warships and air assets near Iranian waters as a deterrent. Trump indicated failure to reach a new agreement could lead to severe consequences, potentially weeks-long military confrontation. Separately, Reuters cited sources saying Iran is in final negotiations with China for CM-302 supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles to bolster maritime capabilities amid rising tensions.