President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that the “clock is ticking” and urging swift action to prevent severe consequences. This warning comes amidst stalled diplomacy and a recent spate of drone attacks on U.S. allies in the Gulf, fueling concerns of a potential war.

On Truth Social, Trump cautioned Iran to “move quickly” or face obliteration. This message reflects growing frustration as efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict, address Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and restore normalcy in the Strait of Hormuz remain sluggish.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, responded, asserting that Tehran is not intimidated. He noted that negotiations continue, with Iran recently conveying its concerns in response to a new U.S. proposal.

Recent drone strikes have further exacerbated tensions, with the United Arab Emirates reporting an attack on a nuclear power plant and Saudi Arabia intercepting drones from Iraqi airspace. Although the attackers remain unidentified, the UAE labeled the incident an “unprovoked terrorist attack.” The emirate frequently blames Iran for such actions, especially during ceasefires.

Global reactions have varied, with countries like Pakistan condemning the attack. Meanwhile, Trump has communicated with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, though the White House has not confirmed the call.

Trump shared with Axios his stance on potential military action, emphasizing a harder strike if Iran doesn’t offer a better deal to suspend its nuclear program. Though he avoided specifying a negotiation deadline, Trump expressed a desire for a more favorable proposal.

Recent comments from Sen. Lindsey Graham call for increased U.S. military actions against Iran, criticizing the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz and its global economic ramifications. The closure, alongside a U.S. naval blockade, has critically impacted energy and fertilizer supplies worldwide.

Oil markets have reacted sharply, with Brent crude prices rising to approximately $110 per barrel. Fatih Birol from the International Energy Agency expressed concern over rapidly depleting oil reserves, noting that they could last only a few more weeks.

In an interview with Fortune magazine, Trump addressed these economic challenges, suggesting patience until the resolution of the conflict.

Baghaei assured that Iran harbors no hostility toward regional countries, including the UAE. He emphasized Tehran’s readiness for any potential conflict initiated by Trump, while reiterating Iran’s commitment to its nuclear rights under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.