Washington, United States. President Donald Trump urged Iran to negotiate a deal to prevent nuclear weapons, warning that a future U.S. strike would be far worse, as Iranian officials threatened retaliation against the United States and Israel.
Trump warns of escalation and urges negotiations
Trump wrote on social media that he hoped Iran would “Come to the Table” and negotiate a “fair and equitable deal – NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS,” adding that “Time is running out.”
He said his last warning to Iran was followed by a military strike in June and warned, “The next attack will be far worse,” adding that a U.S. “armada” was heading toward Iran.
Iran threatens retaliation and reiterates interest in a deal
Ali Shamkhani, an adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said on X that any U.S. military action would lead Iran to target the United States, Israel and those who support them.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on X that Iran’s armed forces are prepared to “immediately and powerfully respond to ANY aggression,” while also stating that Iran welcomes a “mutually beneficial, fair and equitable NUCLEAR DEAL” that ensures Iran’s rights to peaceful nuclear technology and guarantees no nuclear weapons.
Araqchi said earlier he had not been in contact with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff in recent days or requested negotiations, according to state media.
U.S. military movements in the Middle East
Trump said a U.S. naval force led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln was approaching Iran.
Two U.S. officials told Reuters on Monday that the Lincoln and supporting warships had arrived in the Middle East.
How do you think these statements could affect the prospects for renewed U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations?