U.S. State Department Reaffirms Iran Cannot Obtain Nuclear Weapons, Urges Citizens to Avoid Region
US warns Iran must never get nukes, activates 24/7 crisis team amid Israel-Iran war. Americans told: Avoid travel to Iraq, Israel, Iran. State Dept issues 30+ alerts.
By Ahora Qadi
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The U.S. State Department issued a stark warning Tuesday regarding escalating tensions in the Middle East, reaffirming the Trump administration’s unwavering position that Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon, while unveiling 24-hour emergency support measures for Americans amid the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.
In a press briefing held on Jun. 17, 2025, State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce underscored the administration’s core national security doctrine: “The fact that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon is clear.” Bruce noted that President Donald Trump has voiced this position publicly “no fewer than a dozen times” since assuming office and “no fewer than 40 times” before taking office.
“The president’s election to a second term has offered the world a chance to see an American leader committed to solving many of the world’s existential threats with determination,” Bruce said. She added that both President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio remain fully engaged in pursuing peace and security through diplomacy, particularly amid intensifying hostilities between Israel and Iran.
Middle East Task Force Activated
Bruce announced the activation of a State Department Middle East Task Force operating 24/7 to coordinate diplomatic engagement and provide support to American citizens and diplomatic personnel across the region. Over the past week, the department has issued more than 30 security alerts and updated travel advisories for Iraq and Israel.
“We remind U.S. citizens not to travel to Israel or Iraq and not to travel to Iran under any circumstances,” Bruce warned, encouraging citizens to register in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and consult travel.state.gov for real-time updates.
Though Bruce refrained from disclosing operational details about the task force or specific evacuation plans, she confirmed that the department “is always planning for contingencies” and will alert U.S. citizens when viable options become available.
Iran Negotiations and Escalating Conflict
While reiterating the administration’s commitment to diplomacy, Bruce stated that the status of nuclear talks with Iran remains “a decision made by President Trump,” declining to confirm whether Iran has indicated continued interest in dialogue.
When asked whether the United States supports regime change in Iran or is merely seeking the dismantling of Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, Bruce emphasized the administration’s consistent diplomatic posture. “All he [Trump] wants is a peaceful world,” she said, declining to speculate on long-term goals. “He wants these things... not for a month or six months, but durable ends to this nature of forever wars.”
Bruce also dismissed any suggestion that the State Department was unprepared for the recent escalation, asserting that the department “works 24/7 to ensure the safety and security of Americans around the world.”
Addressing Regional Concerns
Responding to questions about regional threats, Bruce reiterated that U.S. embassies remain operational, even if some services are limited due to the volatile security environment. Asked about threats from Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, she deferred comment to the Department of Defense but cited Trump’s statement on Truth Social: “We don’t want missiles shot at civilians or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin.”
On whether American intelligence regarding Iran’s nuclear program has changed, Bruce said she could not speak to assessments but emphasized that President Trump and his team are acting based on current intelligence.
International Mediation and Partnerships
Asked about the role of U.S. allies like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE in mediation efforts, Bruce said those nations “understand clearly our intentions,” crediting Trump’s diplomatic approach. “He’s the best dealmaker in the world,” she said. “These partners know what our goals are.”
As for travel security, Bruce confirmed that the department continues to update alerts and emphasized that regional travel warnings remain in place. “We live in a dynamic world. But our priority is the safety of Americans, both at home and abroad,” she concluded.
