Trump Warns Iran: ‘Time is Running Out’ for a Nuclear Deal as US Military Builds Up in the Gulf
Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, stating that time is running out to negotiate a nuclear deal. This warning comes amid a significant build-up of US military forces in the Gulf region.
US Military Armada Heading Towards Iran
– The US president described a massive armada moving swiftly towards Iran, emphasizing the strength and determination of the naval fleet, led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln.
– Trump’s statement has intensified tensions, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserting that Iran’s armed forces are prepared to immediately and powerfully respond to any aggression, whether by land or sea.
– Iran maintains that its nuclear program is entirely peaceful and has consistently refuted claims from the US and its allies regarding intentions to develop nuclear weapons.
Context of the Warning
– Trump’s warning is further contextualized by recent events in Iran, where protests erupted after a plunge in the national currency’s value, evolving into a broader crisis of legitimacy for the clerical regime.
– Help is on the way, Trump previously remarked, contrasting that with his claim of having received information that the execution of demonstrators had ceased.
Rising Casualty Reports Amid Protests
– The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has documented over 6,301 deaths since protests began in December, including at least 5,925 protesters. They are also investigating an additional 17,000 reported fatalities amidst an ongoing internet shutdown.
– The Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) group warns that the final death toll could surpass 25,000.
Focus on Nuclear Program Negotiations
– Trump urged Iran to Come to the Table for a fair and equitable deal—NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS, highlighting the necessity for negotiations.
– He claimed that the naval force present in the Gulf is more substantial than the one sent to Venezuela, which aimed to remove Nicolás Maduro from power.
Speeches from Both Sides
– During a CNN interview, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of Iran’s parliament, indicated that Tehran was open to negotiations if they were genuine. However, he criticized Trump’s approach as one of imposing his will rather than seeking true dialogue.
– Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, asserting that the Iranian regime appears weaker than ever and lacks the means to address extensive public grievances, primarily economic issues.
Iran’s Response to the Nuclear Deal Conditions
– In response to Trump’s warnings, Araghchi reiterated that Iran has always welcomed a mutually beneficial, fair and equitable nuclear deal, free from coercion and threats.
– He insisted that Iran has no desire for nuclear weapons, reinforcing the notion that they seek peaceful nuclear technology.
Military Build-Up Details
– Recent satellite imagery has revealed the arrival of at least 15 fighter jets at Jordan’s Muwaffaq Air Force Base, alongside an influx of cargo and refueling aircraft throughout the region.
– BBC Verified reports confirm that a naval armada has reached the Middle East, with naval assets significantly increased, including at least two guided missile destroyers and several combat ships stationed in Bahrain.
Historical Context of the Nuclear Deal
– Under the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, Iran was restricted from enriching uranium beyond 3.67% purity—suitable only for commercial nuclear power. The deal also prohibited enrichment at the Fordo plant for 15 years.
– Trump abandoned this agreement in 2018, reinstating sanctions that devastated the Iranian economy, leading Tehran to breach many deal stipulations—including increased uranium enrichment.
Conclusion: Escalating Tensions
Trump’s recent comments indicate a clear focus on Iran’s nuclear program as the military presence in the Gulf heightens. With negotiations seemingly stalled and widespread unrest in Iran, the situation remains volatile. As both sides prepare for potential escalations, the international community watches closely, awaiting developments in this crucial diplomatic crisis.