U.S. officials have declared the next 24 to 48 hours critical in determining whether President Trump can achieve a diplomatic breakthrough with Iran—or whether the United States will be forced to consider military action, according to ABC News.
In a high-stakes meeting, Trump and his national-security team convened in the White House Situation Room. Officials involved said the administration will await a response from Iran to signals sent by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Vice President J.D. Vance before advancing military options.
Despite a hardline posture—including Trump’s warning that his “patience is wearing thin” and threats of strikes from the skies—the administration reportedly still believes Iran is in a weakened position and may return to the negotiating table on nuclear issues.
Officials emphasized that military assets—additional aircraft, a carrier strike group, destroyers, and strategic bombers—are being repositioned defensively in the Middle East. Their presence, however, also ensures the president retains full readiness to authorize limited strikes, including potential action against deeply buried nuclear facilities.
The administration is carefully weighing diplomatic overtures—including convening a high-level meeting with Iran soon—against growing military preparedness. Saying more time is needed, one official outlined the US approach: “We’re strong, we’re prepared, we’re defensive and present”.
