Washington: US President Donald Trump issued a sharp warning to Iran, saying “the clock is ticking” and it must act fast or “there won’t be anything left of them,” as talks remain deadlocked over uranium stockpiles, sanctions relief and war compensation. His remarks came hours after Iranian media outlined US conditions for restarting negotiations.
US President Donald Trump on Truth Social posts: "For Iran, the Clock is Ticking, and they better get moving, FAST, or there won’t be anything left of them. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE! President DJT" pic.twitter.com/BAOA868o5H
— ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2026
According to Iran’s Fars News Agency, Washington has demanded that Tehran hand over 400 kilograms of enriched uranium, restrict itself to a single nuclear facility, and accept that no compensation will be paid for war damages.
The US has also reportedly refused to release even 25% of Iran’s frozen assets. In response, Iran has set its own five preconditions, including an end to regional military operations—particularly in Lebanon—lifting of sanctions, release of frozen funds, compensation for war damage, and recognition of Iranian sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.
The tensions persist despite a Pakistan-mediated ceasefire earlier this year, which halted fighting between Iran, Israel and US-linked forces but failed to produce a lasting political settlement. The Strait of Hormuz remains a major flashpoint, with Iran tightening control over shipping routes and the US increasing naval pressure.
Iranian military officials warned of a “catastrophic response” to any renewed US attack, while Trump also discussed the situation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid fears of renewed escalation.
