Trump Issues 10-Day Ultimatum to Iran as Protest Wave Brings Back Pre-1979 Iranian Flag

US-Iran Tensions Enter Critical Phase After Trump Issues Ten-Day Ultimatum to Tehran. This warning comes amid an increasingly complex situation: while Washington and Tehran conduct indirect negotiations, large-scale protests continue within Iran, with citizens raising pre-1979 Iranian flags as a symbol of rejection against the current leadership. The momentum in US-Iran relations and internal dynamics in the Gulf region now stand at a pivotal crossroads.

Fundamental Differences Continue to Block Diplomatic Breakthroughs

The indirect negotiations between the US and Iran held in Switzerland on February 17 resulted in contrasting assessments from both sides. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the discussions showed “good progress,” while American officials viewed differently. Vice President J.D. Vance acknowledged partial progress but emphasized that Tehran continues to reject key US demands.

The core US demands fueling the debate include:

• Comprehensive dismantling of Iran’s nuclear enrichment program
• Strict limitations on ballistic missile development
• Cessation of support for regional proxy groups

These gaps remain major obstacles. Despite diplomatic meetings, both countries remain entrenched in fundamental positions that are difficult to reconcile, especially regarding nuclear security and regional power balance.

Military Deployment Creates Fears of Worst-Case Scenario

Following the negotiations, the US has accelerated military deployments in the Middle East. Reports indicate the deployment of cargo planes, advanced fighter jets, refueling tankers, and an aircraft carrier. Strong indications suggest a second carrier group will soon follow.

This mobilization signals that Washington is preparing for the possibility of military action, although official officials have not announced concrete operational plans. This posture heightens international concerns that diplomacy may be replaced by armed confrontation.

Iran Responds with Demonstrations of Power and Strong Warnings

Tehran has responded by demonstrating its own military readiness. Iran has conducted joint military exercises with Russia and temporarily closed the Strait of Hormuz as part of its defense scenario. In official communications to the United Nations, Tehran warned that attacks on Iran would make US bases and assets in the region “legitimate targets.”

While asserting it does not seek war, Iran has clearly positioned itself as a player unwilling to back down in the face of potential escalation. This message, combined with strategic military movements, creates a dynamic that increases mutual risk.

Pre-1979 Flags Become Symbols of Rejection Amid Domestic Chaos

Geopolitical escalation does not occur in a vacuum—this situation overlaps with significant internal instability. Protests, initially sparked by economic grievances, have spread nationwide since January, reigniting the spirit of the “Women, Life, Freedom” movement that shook Iran in 2022 after Mahsa Amini’s death.

In these demonstrations, pre-1979 Iranian flags have become powerful visual symbols of rejection of the regime. The red-white-green flag without Islamic symbols historically represents Iran before the 1979 revolution and has been chosen by protesters as a symbol of aspirations for change. Iranian authorities have responded by tightening widespread internet shutdowns and repressive actions. International human rights organizations report thousands detained or subjected to violence.

Solidarity protests against Iran’s regime have spread globally. Large rallies in Munich during the annual European security conference featured crowds carrying pre-1979 Iranian flags, illustrating how this domestic symbol has become an emblem of international resistance against authoritarianism.

Diplomacy Strategy Versus Regime Pressure: Fundamental Debate

Several opposition figures, including former Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, argue that any agreement between the US and Iran will only strengthen the current regime rather than respond to mass demands for fundamental transformation. This perspective reflects tensions between traditional diplomatic approaches and calls for structural change.

The prospects for a comprehensive nuclear deal remain very slim given the history of tensions. The US withdrew from the 2015 nuclear agreement in 2018, and fundamental disagreements over nuclear enrichment, missile capabilities, and regional alliances have persisted for years without significant resolution.

Narrow Time Window: Is Diplomacy Still Relevant?

With Trump’s ten-day deadline, the coming period will be crucial. While hopes remain that diplomacy can prevail, serious obstacles threaten any breakthrough.

Both sides are locked in hard positions—US demands for nuclear and missile reductions versus Iran’s firm rejection—coupled with increasing regional instability, making quick solutions highly unlikely. Whether through diplomatic agreements or open military confrontation, the current situation marks a moment that will determine the future of US-Iran relations and Middle East security stability in the long term.