Iran Issues Nuclear Warning as U.S. War Costs Reach $29 Billion

Tensions between Washington and Tehran have entered a critical new phase as Iranian parliamentary spokesperson Ebrahim Rezaei clarified the country’s nuclear escalation threshold. Tehran has warned it will pursue 90% weapons-grade uranium enrichment if subjected to further military strikes. Simultaneously, Iran's Fars News Agency outlined five non-negotiable preconditions for diplomacy, which include the lifting of U.S. sanctions, compensation for war damages, and the recognition of Iranian sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. Domestically, President Trump has intensified his rhetoric against U.S. media outlets, characterizing reports that highlight Iranian military resilience as 'virtual treason.' This comes as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer pressures Republicans to support a ceasefire resolution, signaling a growing legislative rift over war authorization. On the fiscal front, Acting Pentagon Comptroller Jules Hurst confirmed that military expenditures have accelerated, reaching $29 billion as operational costs mount. International mediation persists despite the administration's unilateral stance. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has engaged Pakistani officials to intensify diplomatic efforts between the two warring nations. While Beijing seeks to stabilize the region ahead of an upcoming summit with President Trump, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard continues to conduct readiness drills around Tehran, maintaining a posture of 'comprehensive readiness' for potential U.S. or Israeli strikes. Oil markets remain volatile, with Brent crude trading near $107 per barrel as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed.