Washington is bracing for heightened tensions as President Donald Trump weighs military options against Iran. American officials describe ongoing diplomacy as a last-ditch effort, while Iran’s closest allies, China and Russia, show reluctance to provide direct military backing in any potential conflict with the US.
Reports have swirled for weeks about Trump’s contemplation of action against Tehran. According to insights from major publications, Iran has long sought deeper military ties with Beijing and Moscow, but both powers are dragging their feet. They face what has been called the most significant US threat to their interests in decades.
Last week, Russia and Iran conducted a limited naval drill in the Gulf of Oman. Iranian state media announced plans for exercises with Chinese vessels near the Strait of Hormuz. Yet, analysts emphasize that neither country is eager to intervene militarily if Trump greenlights strikes on Iran.
A former Israeli military intelligence official noted that China and Russia won’t jeopardize their strategic positions for Iran’s regime. They hope it survives but have no intention of clashing directly with American forces.
Trump has reportedly instructed advisors that if diplomacy or limited strikes fail to halt Iran’s nuclear ambitions, he would consider a massive assault to topple its leadership. Upcoming talks in Geneva loom large, but failure could trigger US retaliation targeting IRGC headquarters, nuclear sites, and missile facilities.
Iran’s Foreign Minister insists Tehran will not relinquish its right to nuclear fuel production under international treaties. Meanwhile, US Senator Jeff Merkley warns against unilateral action, calling it unconstitutional without congressional approval and a risk to American troops and civilians.
White House pressure mounts with claims Iran could acquire materials for industrial-grade bombs within a week. For India, any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz—through which a fifth of global oil flows—threatens energy security and shipping routes, potentially spiking crude prices worldwide.
As negotiations hang in the balance, the world watches whether words turn to weapons in this volatile standoff.