Trump confirms considering a "limited military strike" on Iran; Iranian Foreign Minister: Will finalize draft agreement with the U.S. within three days

According to CCTV News, on February 20th local time, U.S. President Trump stated before a working breakfast with U.S. governors at the White House that he is considering a “preliminary limited military strike” against Iran to pressure Iran to accept U.S. demands regarding the nuclear agreement.

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That morning, when asked whether he was considering limited military strikes if Iran does not reach an agreement, Trump responded, “I think I can say that I am considering that.” However, he did not provide specific details.

On the morning of the 19th, during the first meeting of the so-called “Peace Committee,” Trump stated that whether the U.S. and Iran will reach an agreement “will be known in about ten days.” Iran must reach a “meaningful agreement” with the U.S., or “bad things will happen.” Later that day, Trump also said Iran should reach an agreement with the U.S. within 10 to 15 days.

On the 19th, sources familiar with the matter said that Trump is “considering” a “preliminary limited military strike” against Iran to force Iran to accept U.S. demands regarding the nuclear deal. If approved, the first round of attacks could occur within the next few days, targeting some military or government facilities; if Iran continues to refuse to halt uranium enrichment activities, the U.S. will launch large-scale operations against key Iranian government facilities, possibly aiming to “overthrow the regime.”

Iranian Foreign Minister: Will Decide on Draft Agreement with U.S. Within Three Days

According to CCTV News, on the 20th local time, Iranian Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian stated that Iran’s peaceful nuclear program has no military solution, and the only way forward is diplomacy.

Abdollahian said that attempts have been made before, including large-scale attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities and assassinations of scientists, but they have never been able to destroy Iran’s nuclear program. This technology was developed independently by Iran, so it cannot be destroyed through bombing or military action. The only solution is diplomacy. For this reason, the U.S. has returned to the negotiating table to seek an agreement.

He stated that Iran desires peace and is willing to resolve issues through negotiations and diplomacy, just as Iran is always ready to defend its security.

Abdollahian said that Iran and the U.S. held very good negotiations in Geneva, discussing issues related to the nuclear program and U.S. sanctions, and reached consensus on a series of principles or guidelines for negotiations and possible forms of agreement.

He also said that Iran has decided to draft a possible agreement proposal to be discussed in the next round of negotiations, and has begun negotiations on the text. “This is the path we are currently facing, and I believe it is a normal procedure for any international negotiation. We agree to follow this procedure.” Abdollahian pointed out that after approval from higher authorities, the draft agreement will be sent to the U.S. “We will finalize the draft agreement within the next three days.”

IDF Spokesperson: Israel Defense Forces Are on High Alert

According to CCTV News, IDF spokesperson Duvdevani stated on the 20th local time that the Israel Defense Forces are on high alert, closely monitoring developments from all directions, and will respond faster than ever to any changes in the operational situation.

Additionally, Duvdevani said that the IDF’s rear command has not yet changed the defense guidelines for civilians, and urged the Israeli public to stay alert to the latest official notices.

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