WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump indicated Thursday that a decision on potential military action against Iran could come within the next ten days, as diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions remain ongoing. The announcement came during the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace, a new initiative spearheaded by the Trump administration aimed at resolving international conflicts.
“The outcome of the Iran talks will come over the next probably 10 days,” Trump stated, according to reports from the event. The President’s remarks signal a tightening timeframe for negotiations, and a potential shift towards a more assertive stance if a diplomatic resolution is not reached. This comes as the Defense Department reportedly continues to bolster its military presence in the Middle East, deploying additional warships, air defenses, and submarines in preparation for a possible strike.
The Board of Peace convened in Washington, D.C., with representatives from at least 40 countries expected to attend, though key U.S. Allies were notably absent. Trump announced a U.S. Contribution of $10 billion to the Board, framing it as a relatively small investment “compared to the cost of war.” He also stated that other member nations had pledged approximately $7 billion collectively, with several committing to provide troops and police to help stabilize Gaza.
The situation in Gaza remains a central focus of the Board of Peace’s efforts. The initiative seeks to build on a fragile ceasefire and address the underlying causes of instability in the region. Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to send 8,000 troops as part of an international stabilization force, while Qatar has pledged $1 billion and the United Arab Emirates $1.2 billion to support the Board’s mission. These financial and logistical commitments underscore the international concern surrounding the conflict and the desire to prevent further escalation.
The possibility of military action against Iran has been a recurring theme throughout Trump’s presidency. Tensions between Washington and Tehran have escalated significantly in recent years, particularly following the U.S. Withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, in 2018. The reimposition of sanctions and a series of escalating incidents in the Persian Gulf have raised fears of a wider conflict.
While the administration pursues diplomatic channels, the deployment of additional military assets suggests a willingness to consider all options. According to U.S. Officials, the build-up is intended to deter Iranian aggression and protect U.S. Interests in the region, including the approximately 40,000 U.S. Troops stationed there, as well as those of its allies. Any military operation would likely require a joint effort with Israel, potentially targeting Iranian missile launchers and its reconstituted missile program.
Preliminary indirect talks between U.S. And Iranian representatives were held in Geneva earlier this week, with Oman acting as an intermediary. The U.S. Delegation, led by longtime Trump associates Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, exchanged proposals with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Both sides acknowledged limited progress during the three-hour session, but significant gaps remain on key issues.
Senator Lindsey Graham has publicly advocated for a more robust response to Iranian actions, urging increased intervention. The Senator’s calls for a stronger stance reflect a growing chorus of voices within the U.S. Political establishment who believe that Iran’s destabilizing activities require a firm response. However, the potential consequences of military action, including a wider regional conflict and potential casualties, remain a significant concern.
The next ten days are therefore critical. The outcome of the ongoing negotiations, coupled with the evolving military posture in the region, will likely determine whether the U.S. And Iran move closer to a diplomatic resolution or towards a potentially dangerous confrontation. The Board of Peace, while intended as a platform for peaceful resolution, is unfolding against a backdrop of heightened tensions and a looming deadline for a decision with far-reaching implications for the Middle East, and beyond.
– The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming days as the Trump administration weighs its options and assesses the outcome of the ongoing diplomatic efforts.
