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Trump warns Iran 'clock is ticking' as peace deal progress stalls
Trump warned time is running out for Iran as U.S. officials reportedly prepared contingency plans for renewed strikes if diplomacy fails.
On Sunday, Iranian drones struck the United Arab Emirates' Barakah nuclear power plant, sparking an electrical fire. President Donald Trump warned Iran to negotiate quickly, stating, "there won't be anything left of Iran" if it refuses a ceasefire.
Washington has demanded that Iran keep only one nuclear site operational and transfer its stockpiles of highly enriched uranium to the United States. Tehran currently holds around 440 kilograms of uranium up to 60% purity, theoretically providing enough fissile material for 10 to 12 nuclear bombs.
The $20 billion Barakah facility, built with South Korean assistance, relies on emergency diesel generators after the strike caused an electrical fire. UAE officials confirmed all units remain safe despite the damage.
Anwar Gargash, a diplomatic advisor to the UAE president, called the strike a "dangerous escalation." Saudi Arabia reported intercepting three additional drones that entered its airspace from Iraq.
The conflict, which has blocked the Strait of Hormuz since February 28, continues to disrupt global energy markets. Iran, Hezbollah's patron, demands a lasting ceasefire in Lebanon before finalizing broader peace agreements with the United States.
Daily News and Politics podcast from The Economist
Daily News and Politics podcast from The Economist
WHO declares Ebola an international emergency; drone strikes nuclear power plant in UAE, and more
The World in Brief from The Economist report on UAE’s claim that a drone struck the Barakah nuclear plant, sparking a fire but leaving radiation levels safe as authorities investigate