Donald Trump has warned Iran that 'time is running out' to negotiate a deal on its nuclear programme following the steady build-up of US military forces in the Gulf. The US president described a 'massive Armada' that is 'moving quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose' towards Iran in a post on his Truth Social platform.
In response, Iran's mission to the UN stated Tehran 'stands ready for dialogue based on mutual respect and interests', but warned that if pushed, it would defend itself and 'respond like never before'. Trump had earlier vowed to 'rescue' protesters involved in the crackdown on demonstrations in Iran.
Reports indicate that since unrest began in December, nearly 6,000 people have been killed, including thousands of protesters. As tensions escalate, the US military presence, including the USS Abraham Lincoln, is noted to be greater than previous deployments to Venezuela.
Trump insisted that Iran must quickly negotiate a fair and equitable deal to avoid the development of nuclear weapons, while Iran maintains that its nuclear program is entirely peaceful. The call for negotiations was punctuated by Trump's warning: 'The next attack will be far worse! Don't make that happen again.'
Iranian officials stressed that diplomacy cannot be conducted under military threat, implying that negotiations should be devoid of threats and unreasonable demands.
In response, Iran's mission to the UN stated Tehran 'stands ready for dialogue based on mutual respect and interests', but warned that if pushed, it would defend itself and 'respond like never before'. Trump had earlier vowed to 'rescue' protesters involved in the crackdown on demonstrations in Iran.
Reports indicate that since unrest began in December, nearly 6,000 people have been killed, including thousands of protesters. As tensions escalate, the US military presence, including the USS Abraham Lincoln, is noted to be greater than previous deployments to Venezuela.
Trump insisted that Iran must quickly negotiate a fair and equitable deal to avoid the development of nuclear weapons, while Iran maintains that its nuclear program is entirely peaceful. The call for negotiations was punctuated by Trump's warning: 'The next attack will be far worse! Don't make that happen again.'
Iranian officials stressed that diplomacy cannot be conducted under military threat, implying that negotiations should be devoid of threats and unreasonable demands.
