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Article snippet: The U.S. face-off with Iran reached a new phase Monday as Tehran’s nuclear agency announced it will exceed in 10 days the amount of low-enriched uranium it is allowed to stockpile unless Europe intervenes. The announcement ramps up pressure on European officials to try to save an international deal spearheaded by former President Obama that is now on life support. The Trump administration responded to the news by blaming the Obama administration and calling for “increased international pressure” against Iran. “Iran’s enrichment plans are only possible because the horrible nuclear deal left ... their capabilities intact,” National Security Council spokesman Garrett Marquis said in a statement. “MORE has made it clear that he will never allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons. The regime’s nuclear blackmail must be met with increased international pressure.” Iran’s warning comes as U.S. tensions with the Islamic Republic mount following oil tanker attacks near the strategic chokepoint of the Straight of Hormuz. Washington has blamed the attacks on Tehran. The administration was reportedly sending an additional 1,000 service members to the region on Monday, according to CNN. In an unusual visit for the chief diplomat, Secretary of State MORE will meet Tuesday with Central Command chief Gen. Frank McKenzie and Special Operations Command chief Gen. Richard Clarke at their headquarters in Florida to discuss “regional security concerns and ongoing operations,” the State... Link to the full article to read more