Speaking in a message on social media, Trump urged Iran to agree on a “fair and equitable deal on nuclear weapons” and emphasized that “time is running out” for talks to take place. He referenced earlier U.S. military action last June as a warning, asserting that failure to negotiate could trigger more severe consequences.
Trump also stated that a U.S. naval force, including the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, was approaching Iran, framing the move as part of U.S. pressure for diplomacy.
Two U.S. officials confirmed that the carrier strike group and supporting vessels had arrived in the middle east amid rising tensions.
Iran’s response was firm. Iranian officials said they were ready to defend themselves and would respond “immediately and powerfully” to any aggression. Iran reiterated that while it is open to a nuclear deal that ensures peaceful technology and no nuclear weapons, negotiations must occur without threats or coercion.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi clarified that Iran had not recently engaged with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff or requested negotiations, according to state media. Araqchi stressed that real dialogue must be conducted on equal footing and grounded in mutual respect.
The warning from Trump comes amid a buildup of U.S. military assets in the gulf region following months of Iran’s internal unrest and a harsh crackdown on protesters. In previous clashes, Iran’s protests driven by economic and political frustrations resulted in significant casualties, contributing to heightened international scrutiny and U.S. pressure.
U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have argued that Iran’s government is under strain and indicated that negotiations coupled with pressure could yield results.
However, Trump’s message underscores the increasing use of military threats alongside diplomatic overtures to compel Iran to halt its nuclear ambitions.
Analysts warn that if diplomatic efforts continue under the specter of military action, the risk of a broader conflict in the region could grow, drawing in other nations and impacting global security dynamics.
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