US President Donald Trump on Tuesday reiterated a hard‑line stance toward Iran, warning Tehran as a significant US naval “armada” headed toward the region amid rising tensions over the crackdown on protesters and regional security concerns.
Speaking at a campaign‑style event in Clive, Iowa, Trump pointed to a growing American military presence in the Middle East and said he hoped that diplomacy could prevail. “We have a big armada next to Iran … I hope they make a deal,” he said, underscoring both military pressure and the possibility of negotiations.
In a separate interview with Axios, Trump described the situation as “in flux” and suggested that Iranian officials have signalled a willingness to engage in talks, although clear terms have yet to be agreed. A senior US official later told reporters that Washington is prepared to enter discussions with Iran if Tehran reaches out under defined conditions.
The comments come as the US has moved major military assets, including the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group and additional air defence systems, to the Middle East—a show of force aimed at both deterrence and regional stability.
Despite his warnings, Trump has not authorised additional military action and reiterated his hope that conflict can be avoided. The broader diplomatic and military situation remains tense, with Iran warning that any attack would be treated as “all‑out war.” (Agencies)
