WORLD NEWS

US Vows to Deter Iran from Nuclear Weapons “One Way or the Other”

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright warns Iran will be stopped from acquiring nuclear weapons, calling Tehran’s potential arsenal “entirely unacceptable.” Talks in Geneva continue, but key red lines remain unresolved.
2026-02-18
US Vows to Deter Iran from Nuclear Weapons “One Way or the Other”

The United States will prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons “one way or the other,” US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said on Wednesday.

Speaking to reporters in Paris during meetings of the International Energy Agency, Wright emphasized that US President Donald Trump is “firmly committed” to ensuring Iran does not acquire a nuclear arsenal.

“They’ve been very clear about what they would do with nuclear weapons. It’s entirely unacceptable,” Wright said. “So one way or the other, we are going to end, deter Iran’s march towards a nuclear weapon.”

Diplomatic Efforts

On Tuesday, US and Iranian officials held talks in Geneva to avoid potential US military action and find a diplomatic path to curb Tehran’s nuclear program. Following the discussions, Iran announced that the two sides had agreed on “guiding principles” for a potential deal aimed at preventing conflict.

However, US Vice President JD Vance noted that Tehran had not yet acknowledged all of Washington’s red lines, leaving critical issues unresolved.

The US government continues to signal that while diplomatic engagement remains a priority, military options remain on the table should Iran proceed with nuclear weapons development. Analysts say the situation underscores ongoing tensions over nuclear proliferation in the Middle East and the challenges of securing enforceable agreements with Tehran.