US warns of Iran war capability as Trump sets 'red lines'

The United States has issued a stark warning that it remains "more than capable" of resuming hostilities with Iran, should a potential peace deal falter. President Donald Trump has laid out non-negotiable conditions, emphasizing that any agreement must prevent Iran from ever acquiring nuclear weapons and ensure the unimpeded passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

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The United States warned on Saturday it was "more than capable" of resuming its war with Iran after President Donald Trump said any peace deal must adhere to his red lines, including Tehran never being able to develop nuclear weapons.

While the White House had indicated Trump was nearing a decision on a potential deal, Tehran has denied any final agreement is in place. US sources suggested the deal awaited Trump's approval, but no decision was made after a key meeting. Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth affirmed Washington's readiness for renewed conflict, stating, "our stockpiles are more than suited for that." American forces maintain a vigilant presence across the region, according to US Central Command.

Despite a ceasefire that has generally held since April, sporadic incidents continue. Iran's state news agency reported on Saturday that air defenses had downed a drone, labeling it an "aggressor enemy." Nevertheless, diplomatic efforts persist, including discussions to halt parallel fighting in Lebanon, which Iran insists must be part of any comprehensive deal. Israeli forces have advanced in Lebanon even as military delegations from both nations met.

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Washington was "more than capable" of restarting the war if necessary, adding "our stockpiles are more than suited for that."

Trump's specific demands include Iran's commitment to nuclear non-proliferation and the "no tolls" reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. A White House official stated, "President Trump will only make a deal that is good for America and satisfies his red lines." Conversely, Iran's foreign ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baqaei, pushed back against such conditions, asserting that Iran abandoned such language years ago, though message exchanges continue.

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President Trump will only make a deal that is good for America and satisfies his red lines.

Conflicting reports have emerged regarding financial terms. Trump's social media post suggested a coordination on destroying enriched uranium with no money exchanged initially. However, Iranian news agencies cited sources claiming Tehran demands the "immediate release of $12 billion" before proceeding, with state television reporting an "unofficial" draft memorandum where the US pledged access to $12 billion in frozen assets within 60 days.

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Iran can never possess a nuclear weapon.