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 said a massive Armada was 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 said Tehran stands ready for dialogue based on mutual respect and interests, but if pushed, it wrote in all capitals, it will defend itself and respond like never before.
Trump had previously stated he would rescue protesters involved in the brutal and unprecedented crackdown on demonstrations in Iran earlier this month.
The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reports that it has confirmed nearly 6,000 people have been killed since protests began in late December, including 5,633 protesters, and is investigating an additional 17,000 reported deaths amid internet restrictions.
The Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) has cautioned that the final toll may exceed 25,000.
Trump expressed hope that Iran would quickly Come to the Table to negotiate a fair deal regarding nuclear arms—emphasizing that Iran insists its nuclear programme is purely peaceful.
The naval force in the Gulf, larger than previous deployments to Venezuela, is reportedly ready, willing, and able to rapidly fulfill its mission, with speed and violence, if necessary. Trump warned that future attacks would be more devastating if Iran does not comply.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that diplomacy cannot succeed under military threat and called for the US to cease its aggressive stance for meaningful negotiations.
