The United States has denied any intention to use nuclear weapons against Iran, even as a deadline set by President Donald Trump for Tehran to reach an agreement or face a major military assault approaches.
Speaking on Tuesday, Trump used stark and dramatic language, warning that unless Iran complies with his demands, “a whole civilisation will die tonight.” The ultimatum, first issued on Saturday, calls on Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz—a crucial route for roughly one-fifth of global energy exports—or face attacks on key infrastructure, including power plants and bridges.
The White House rejected suggestions that nuclear weapons were under consideration. However, responses from officials appeared mixed. Vice President JD Vance stated that the US could use tools it has “so far not decided to use,” a remark that drew criticism and speculation online. A social media account linked to former Vice President Kamala Harris suggested this hinted at possible nuclear use, a claim the White House strongly dismissed.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt offered a more cautious response, saying only that the president alone knows what actions he may take.
Democratic Congressman Joaquin Castro urged Trump to clearly rule out the use of nuclear weapons, amid growing concern over escalating rhetoric.
Iranian officials, meanwhile, responded defiantly. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned that any US attack on civilian infrastructure would be met with severe retaliation, threatening to target American and allied energy interests in the region.
“Our response will not be limited to the region,” the IRGC said, adding that US assets could fall within Iranian strike range if “red lines” are crossed.
Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian claimed that more than 14 million Iranians have volunteered to defend the country.
Tensions have surged alongside intensifying military exchanges. US strikes reportedly targeted military infrastructure on Kharg Island, Iran’s primary oil export hub, though officials said energy facilities were not hit. The island handles about 90 percent of Iran’s oil exports, making it a critical economic asset.
This marks the second reported US strike on Kharg Island in recent weeks. In March, Washington claimed to have destroyed military targets there while deliberately avoiding oil infrastructure.
At the same time, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israeli forces had struck railways and bridges across Iran, alleging they were used by the IRGC to transport weapons.
As the deadline approaches, fears are growing that the escalating threats and military actions could lead to a broader and more destructive conflict.
Source: Al Jazeera