With Iran’s air defenses shredded, allies sidelined and arsenal of missiles running down, the country’s theocratic leaders face the prospect of having to submit to a tougher negotiation on their nuclear program as their only way out of a worsening situation.

President Donald Trump in about eight hours went from suggesting a nuclear deal remained “achievable” to urging Tehran’s 9.5 million residents to flee for their lives.

Iranian officials on Saturday signaled they could walk back their decision to not attend upcoming nuclear talks with the U.S., but said further negotiations were likely “meaningless” as the nation exchanges fire with Israel.