As nuclear talks teeter on collapse, Trump threatens strikes while Khamenei quietly secures succession — setting the stage for a volatile showdown.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is preparing for a worst-case scenario as U.S. President Donald Trump sets a new deadline for nuclear negotiations, warning that military strikes could follow within days if talks fail.
Trump’s envoys — special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner — are scheduled to meet Iranian representatives in Geneva this Thursday to discuss a potential deal. But Trump has signalled that if no agreement is reached within 10 to 15 days, he is prepared to authorise strikes against Iranian regime facilities.
Ali Larijani, a senior national security official and close advisor to Khamenei, told Al Jazeera that Iran is ready to respond: “We are definitely more powerful than before. We are not looking for war, but if they force it on us, we will respond.”
Khamenei has reportedly established a succession plan four layers deep for key military and government posts, ensuring continuity in the event of leadership disruption.
Meanwhile, protests inside Iran have escalated since the New Year, with authorities cutting internet and phone lines to stifle dissent. Protesters have turned to Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite technology to bypass restrictions.
In Washington, resistance to Trump’s hardline approach is growing. Lawmakers from both parties are preparing a War Powers Resolution to curb unilateral military action. Yet hawks like Senator Lindsey Graham argue that failing to confront Iran would embolden “evil unchecked.”
Trump has intensified his rhetoric, posting on Truth Social: “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” The State Department has echoed his warnings, stressing that Trump follows through on threats.
The situation underscores a volatile mix of diplomacy, military brinkmanship, and domestic unrest in Iran — with both sides bracing for a confrontation that could reshape the Middle East.
