US Says Iran Rejected Nuclear Offer Before Preemptive Strikes

"The officials said the decision was driven by what they characterized as a dual threat: Iran's long-term ambition to acquire nuclear weapons and its immediate conventional missile capabilities. One official said the administration believed Iran's ballistic missile arsenal, particularly in the country's southern belt, posed an 'intolerable risk' to US forces in the region."

"Acting before those missiles could be launched, the official said, would significantly reduce potential casualties compared to waiting for Iran to strike first. The official added that US intelligence suggested Iran could use its missiles preemptively or in response to any action against it."

"The officials also described months of negotiations aimed at securing what they called a 'real deal' -- one that would address not only nuclear enrichment but also Iran's regional activities and proxy networks. They said the president had instructed negotiators to seek an agreement that would permanently block Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon."

The United States launched preemptive military strikes against Iran on February 28, citing dual threats: Iran's long-term nuclear ambitions and its immediate conventional missile capabilities. Senior administration officials stated that intelligence indicated Iran was preparing to use its missile arsenal against US forces and allies, while simultaneously refusing to accept meaningful limits on its nuclear program. The administration characterized Iran's ballistic missile arsenal in its southern region as posing an intolerable risk. Officials argued that acting preemptively would significantly reduce potential casualties compared to waiting for Iran to strike first. Months of diplomatic negotiations aimed at securing a comprehensive agreement addressing nuclear enrichment, regional activities, and proxy networks were deemed unsuccessful, leaving the administration with no alternative but military action.

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