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US President Donald Trump has warned Iran that "time is running out" to strike a new nuclear agreement, issuing his most explicit threat yet as American military deployments intensify across the Middle East.
Speaking through a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said a "massive armada" led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln was moving toward the region, describing the force as larger than previous US naval deployments and fully prepared to act if diplomacy fails. He urged Tehran to return to negotiations, stressing that the alternative would be severe military consequences.
Iran responded cautiously but defiantly. Its mission to the United Nations said Tehran remained open to dialogue grounded in "mutual respect and interests," while warning that any aggression would be met with unprecedented retaliation. Iranian officials continue to insist the country's nuclear programme is peaceful, rejecting long-standing US and allied accusations that it seeks nuclear weapons.
Trump's remarks come amid heightened regional tensions following unrest inside Iran and Washington's sharp criticism of Tehran's handling of nationwide protests. Human rights groups say thousands have been killed since demonstrations began late last year, although Iranian authorities dispute those figures. Trump previously claimed US pressure helped halt executions of protesters, a statement Iran has not confirmed.
While the president referenced domestic unrest, his latest comments were focused squarely on Iran's nuclear activities. He reiterated demands for a deal that would permanently bar Tehran from developing nuclear weapons, warning that failure to comply would invite a response "far worse" than past US strikes.
Open-source tracking and satellite imagery show a notable surge in US military assets around Iran. Fighter jets have been deployed to bases in Jordan and Qatar, additional air defences installed at Al-Udeid Air Base, an This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. d dozens of cargo and refuelling aircraft have arrived in the region. US naval forces, including guided-
missile destroyers, are also operating in and around the Gulf, according to defence officials.
Analysts say the buildup significantly strengthens Washington's regional posture. Iran, meanwhile, has positioned its own assets near its coastline, including a drone carrier that entered service last year.
The last direct US action against Iranian nuclear facilities occurred in mid-2025, when strikes targeted enrichment sites at Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan. US officials said the operation delayed Iran's nuclear ambitions, a claim Tehran disputes.
