US deployments in the Middle East have expanded in recent weeks, signalling what officials describe as readiness for multiple contingencies.

US deployments in the Middle East have expanded in recent weeks, signalling what officials describe as readiness for multiple contingencies.

‘Conflict more likely than settlement?’ US and Iran on brink of war as military surge crushes fragile diplomacy!

Tensions between the US and Iran escalate as the Trump administration edges closer to a potential conflict in West Asia. Military movements, diplomatic standoffs, and high-stakes negotiations have heightened fears of a major war. This report breaks down the latest developments, strategic responses, and the global implications of rising US-Iran hostilities.


US-Iran Tensions: Trump Administration is Closer to a Major War in West Asia 

Tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate as President Donald Trump demands Tehran agree to a deal, warning of severe consequences if no agreement is reached. The US has deployed additional warships, aircraft carriers and fighter jets to the Middle East to pressure Iran amid stalled nuclear talks and growing fears of conflict.


US-Iran Tensions: Trump Asks Tehran for Deal As US Deploys More Warships, Jets

Satellite imagery shows Iran is actively repairing and strengthening key military and nuclear facilities that were damaged in past strikes as tensions with the United States grow. This includes burying tunnel entrances, building protective concrete shields over sensitive sites, and restoring missile bases—moves seen as efforts to harden infrastructure amid stalled nuclear negotiations and potential future conflict.


Report: Iran Repairing & Fortifying Sites Amid US Tensions

US President Donald Trump has indicated he will be indirectly involved in the high-stakes talks, stating, “I don’t think they want the consequences of not making a deal.”

US President Donald Trump has indicated he will be indirectly involved in the high-stakes talks, stating, “I don’t think they want the consequences of not making a deal.”

What if nuclear talks fail? 6 reasons Trump might choose the military option against Iran

The USS Gerald R. Ford is designed to launch 270 sorties in 24 hours, outpacing the USS Abraham Lincoln's 240. With electromagnetic launchers and faster weapons elevators, the Ford delivers 30 per cent more combat power, though the Lincoln remains a battle-tested veteran.

The USS Gerald R. Ford is designed to launch 270 sorties in 24 hours, outpacing the USS Abraham Lincoln's 240. With electromagnetic launchers and faster weapons elevators, the Ford delivers 30 per cent more combat power, though the Lincoln remains a battle-tested veteran.

​​‘USS Gerald R. Ford or USS Abraham Lincoln’: Which carrier can launch more airstrikes on Iran in a 24‑hour period?

Netanyahu urged Iran to end uranium enrichment, while Tehran signaled willingness to negotiate if sanctions are lifted. As US-Iran talks resume in Geneva, Washington pushes diplomacy alongside pressure tactics, leaving the prospects of a breakthrough uncertain.

Netanyahu urged Iran to end uranium enrichment, while Tehran signaled willingness to negotiate if sanctions are lifted. As US-Iran talks resume in Geneva, Washington pushes diplomacy alongside pressure tactics, leaving the prospects of a breakthrough uncertain

Netanyahu lists condition for US-Iran deal but Tehran wants sanctions relief: Will second round of nuclear talks succeed?

US President Donald Trump reportedly told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in December that he would back Israeli strikes on Iran’s ballistic missile program if Washington and Tehran could not reach a deal. The revelation comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East as another round of talks is set to take place in Geneva, and the US expands its military presence in the region.According to a CBS report, citing sources familiar with the matter, internal discussions between senior officials in the US military and intelligence agencies have started on the possibility of supporting fresh Israeli strikes on Iran.Last year, the US joined Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. CBS reported that Washington’s role this time will involve helping jets refuel in midair or aiding Israel in receiving permission to fly over neighbouring countries. Meanwhile, several countries have voiced that they would not allow their airspace be used for an attack on Iran.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-will-go-full-force-trump-and-netanyahu-agree-to-ramp-up-maximum-pressure-on-iran-s-oil-1771126657780">‘We will go full force’: Trump and Netanyahu agree to ramp up ‘maximum pressure’ on Iran’s oil</a>The report comes ahead of the second round of negotiations between the US and Iran in Geneva to discuss Iran’s nuclear program.&nbsp;Netanyahu on Sunday (Feb 15) said that any deal between the US and Iran must include the removal of all enriched uranium from Iran as well as Tehran’s ability to enrich more.Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that Trump has made it clear that he would prefer diplomacy and a negotiated settlement.“No one’s ever been able to do a successful deal with Iran, but we’re going to try,” Rubio said.Axios reported that Trump and Netanyahu have agreed to intensify economic pressure on Iran to force Tehran give up its nuclear program, and also reduce its oil sales to China.&nbsp;According to the report, more than 80 per cent of Iranian oil exports are sent to China. Reducing Beijing’s oil purchases from Iran could significantly increase economic pressure on Tehran. The pressure campaign will take place alongside the talks on Iran’s nuclear program and ongoing US military buildup in the Middle East if negotiations fail.Watch | US-Iran Talk: Netanyahu Demands All Uranium Leave Iran Ahead Geneva Talks<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-talk-netanyahu-demands-all-uranium-leave-iran-ahead-geneva-talks-1771210796373/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-talk-netanyahu-demands-all-uranium-leave-iran-ahead-geneva-talks-1771210796373/embed</a> &nbsp;

Donald Trump reportedly told Benjamin Netanyahu he’d back Israeli strikes on Iran’s missile program if US-Iran talks fail, as tensions rise and Washington weighs expanded military support.

US President Donald Trump reportedly told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in December that he would back Israeli strikes on Iran’s ballistic missile program if Washington and Tehran could not reach a deal. The revelation comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East as another round of talks is set to take place in Geneva, and the US expands its military presence in the region. According to a CBS report, citing sources familiar with the matter, internal discussions between senior officials in the US military and intelligence agencies have started on the possibility of supporting fresh Israeli strikes on Iran. Last year, the US joined Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. CBS reported that Washington’s role this time will involve helping jets refuel in midair or aiding Israel in receiving permission to fly over neighbouring countries. Meanwhile, several countries have voiced that they would not allow their airspace be used for an attack on Iran. Also read | ‘We will go full force’: Trump and Netanyahu agree to ramp up ‘maximum pressure’ on Iran’s oil The report comes ahead of the second round of negotiations between the US and Iran in Geneva to discuss Iran’s nuclear program. Netanyahu on Sunday (Feb 15) said that any deal between the US and Iran must include the removal of all enriched uranium from Iran as well as Tehran’s ability to enrich more. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that Trump has made it clear that he would prefer diplomacy and a negotiated settlement. “No one’s ever been able to do a successful deal with Iran, but we’re going to try,” Rubio said. Axios reported that Trump and Netanyahu have agreed to intensify economic pressure on Iran to force Tehran give up its nuclear program, and also reduce its oil sales to China. According to the report, more than 80 per cent of Iranian oil exports are sent to China. Reducing Beijing’s oil purchases from Iran could significantly increase economic pressure on Tehran. The pressure campaign will take place alongside the talks on Iran’s nuclear program and ongoing US military buildup in the Middle East if negotiations fail. Watch | US-Iran Talk: Netanyahu Demands All Uranium Leave Iran Ahead Geneva Talks https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-talk-netanyahu-demands-all-uranium-leave-iran-ahead-geneva-talks-1771210796373/embed

Donald Trump reportedly told Benjamin Netanyahu he’d back Israeli strikes on Iran’s missile program if US-Iran talks fail, as tensions rise and Washington weighs expanded military support.

US to back Israeli strikes on Iran? What Trump told Netanyahu if deal fails

Reza Pahlavi urged US military action to hasten Iran’s regime collapse and offered to lead a democratic transition. While Trump hints at regime change and builds military pressure, nuclear talks continue amid deep mistrust and uncertainty over a deal.

Reza Pahlavi urged US military action to hasten Iran’s regime collapse and offered to lead a democratic transition. While Trump hints at regime change and builds military pressure, nuclear talks continue amid deep mistrust and uncertainty over a deal.

Reza Pahlavi urges Trump to ditch Iran talks as US envoys calls nuclear deal 'difficult to impossible': What's next?

US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have reportedly agreed to intensify economic pressure on Iran to force Tehran give up its nuclear program, and also reduce its oil sales to China. This comes after the two leaders held a meeting in Washington on Wednesday (Feb 11) to discuss Iran.“We agreed that we will go full force with maximum pressure against Iran, for example, regarding Iranian oil sales to China,” a senior US official told Axios.According to the report, more than 80 per cent of Iranian oil exports are sent to China. Reducing Beijing’s oil purchases from Iran could significantly increase economic pressure on Tehran. The pressure campaign will take place alongside the talks on Iran’s nuclear program and ongoing US military buildup in the Middle East if negotiations fail.Earlier this month, Trump signed an executive order allowing his Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, and the Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, to recommend that the US president impose tariffs of up to 25 per cent on countries conducting business with Iran.The report added that while Trump and Netanyahu agreed on ramping up pressure on Iran, they disagreed about the ways to get there. Axios reported, citing a US official, that Trump told Netanyahu that he believes there is a chance to reach a deal with Iran, but the Israeli leader claimed that Tehran will not abide by it even if a deal is signed.Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law and advisor Jared Kushner are set to hold a second round of talks with Iranian officials on Tuesday (Feb 17) in Geneva, where the US officials are expected to receive a response from Iran. “We are sober and realistic about the Iranians. The ball is in their court. If it is not a real deal, we will not take it,” a US official told Axios.Meanwhile, Rubio on Saturday (Feb 14) said that Trump is ready to meet Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to resolve issues between the two countries. &nbsp;

Trump and Netanyahu agreed in Washington to ramp up “maximum pressure” on Iran, targeting its nuclear program and oil exports to China, with plans to intensify economic sanctions on Tehran.

US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have reportedly agreed to intensify economic pressure on Iran to force Tehran give up its nuclear program, and also reduce its oil sales to China. This comes after the two leaders held a meeting in Washington on Wednesday (Feb 11) to discuss Iran. “We agreed that we will go full force with maximum pressure against Iran, for example, regarding Iranian oil sales to China,” a senior US official told Axios. According to the report, more than 80 per cent of Iranian oil exports are sent to China. Reducing Beijing’s oil purchases from Iran could significantly increase economic pressure on Tehran. The pressure campaign will take place alongside the talks on Iran’s nuclear program and ongoing US military buildup in the Middle East if negotiations fail. Earlier this month, Trump signed an executive order allowing his Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, and the Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, to recommend that the US president impose tariffs of up to 25 per cent on countries conducting business with Iran. The report added that while Trump and Netanyahu agreed on ramping up pressure on Iran, they disagreed about the ways to get there. Axios reported, citing a US official, that Trump told Netanyahu that he believes there is a chance to reach a deal with Iran, but the Israeli leader claimed that Tehran will not abide by it even if a deal is signed. Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law and advisor Jared Kushner are set to hold a second round of talks with Iranian officials on Tuesday (Feb 17) in Geneva, where the US officials are expected to receive a response from Iran. “We are sober and realistic about the Iranians. The ball is in their court. If it is not a real deal, we will not take it,” a US official told Axios. Meanwhile, Rubio on Saturday (Feb 14) said that Trump is ready to meet Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to resolve issues between the two countries.

Trump and Netanyahu agreed in Washington to ramp up “maximum pressure” on Iran, targeting its nuclear program and oil exports to China, with plans to intensify economic sanctions on Tehran.

‘We will go full force’: Trump and Netanyahu agree to ramp up ‘maximum pressure’ on Iran’s oil

Marco Rubio said Donald Trump prefers diplomacy with Iran and is open to meeting Ayatollah Khamenei, even as military deployments and regime change remarks raise tensions. Talks may continue, but the US is also preparing for possible escalation if negotiations fail.

Marco Rubio said Donald Trump prefers diplomacy with Iran and is open to meeting Ayatollah Khamenei, even as military deployments and regime change remarks raise tensions. Talks may continue, but the US is also preparing for possible escalation if negotiations fail.

Rubio says Trump 'open to meeting Khamenei' but US president backs 'regime change' in Iran, deploys another warship - What's happening

 Tensions between US and Iran refuse to die down. Despite the insistence on dialogue, threats and counter-threats continue unabated. In the latest, Iran has vowed to sink us warships, after trump announced plans to deploy a second aircraft carrier in the region. Trump has also warned Iran to strike a deal within a month or face traumatic consequences.


Trump Warns Iran: Strike Deal in a Month or Face Traumatic Consequences 

After weeks of escalating tensions in West Asia, Donald Trump continues to maintain a hardline stance on Iran, warning of “very tough” consequences if Tehran fails to agree to US demands on its nuclear programme and regional activities. The rhetoric comes alongside increased US military deployments, including additional warships in the region, signalling rising pressure on Iran even as indirect talks and diplomatic efforts continue to prevent further escalation.


After Weeks of Tensions, Trump is Still Talking Tough on Iran

Amid rising US-Iran tensions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that US President Donald Trump may be creating conditions that could pressure Iran into accepting a potential deal.


US-Iran Tensions: Netanyahu Says Trump May be Creating Conditions for Iran

The Pentagon has directed a second aircraft carrier strike group to prepare for possible deployment to West Asia as the United States weighs military options against Iran. 


US-Iran Tensions: Trump Hints at Sending Another Aircraft Carrier to West Asia

The USS George HW Bush remains a strong option due to its availability and positioning, which could allow Washington to reinforce its naval presence quickly if tensions escalate or negotiations fail.

The USS George HW Bush remains a strong option due to its availability and positioning, which could allow Washington to reinforce its naval presence quickly if tensions escalate or negotiations fail.

Could USS George HW Bush join USS Abraham Lincoln in Gulf amid US–Iran tensions? Here’s why it stands out

Amid backchannel diplomacy with Tehran, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday threatened that he may send a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East, even as Washington moves towards another round of negotiations to prevent conflict.

US-Iran Tensions: Trump Weighs Sending 2nd Aircraft Carrier to Middle East if Iran Talks Fail 

The USS George Washington in Asia and the USS George HW Bush on the US east coast are the most likely candidates, officials have told Reuters, but each is at least a week away from the Middle East. 

The USS George Washington in Asia and the USS George HW Bush on the US east coast are the most likely candidates, officials have told Reuters, but each is at least a week away from the Middle East.

Second US supercarrier near Iran soon? Which warship could join USS Abraham Lincoln amid US–Iran tensions?

Tensions between the United States and Iran are rising sharply as Washington expands its military presence in West Asia, even while preparing for fresh nuclear talks. A U.S. fighter jet has shot down an Iranian drone, and Iranian forces have attempted to detain a U.S.-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. At the same time, the Pentagon is deploying more warships, fighter jets, and missile defence systems. With THAAD interceptor production set to increase and diplomatic talks approaching, the region stands at a critical crossroads. Will dialogue succeed or is conflict inevitable?


U.S. Lacks Interceptors as Shield Against Iran Missiles, Talks Begin Amid High Tension

United States President Donald Trump has said that talks with Iran are continuing to try to de-escalate tensions in the Gulf, even as the US military announced shooting down an Iranian drone that approached its aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea.


Iran, US Talks Likely in Oman; Trump Says US Negotiating With Iran Right Now

The US military shot down an Iranian drone on Tuesday (Feb 3) that &nbsp;"aggressively" approached the Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea. This came amid the arrangement of nuclear talks between the Islamic Republic and America. The incident also occurred after the US President Donald Trump warned that with US warships heading toward Iran, "bad things" would probably happen if a deal could not be reached.&nbsp;The Iranian Shahed-139 drone was flying toward the carrier "with unclear intent" and was shot down by an F-35 US fighter jet, the US military said, Reuters reported. Navy Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson at the US military's Central Command, told the news agency, "An F-35C fighter jet from Abraham Lincoln shot down the Iranian drone in self-defense and to protect the aircraft carrier and personnel on board."<h2>‘We are sending a larger number of ships to Iran’</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/they-asked-me-to-fix-it-and-i-did-italian-painter-restores-angel-s-face-critics-say-it-now-looks-like-giorgia-meloni-1770122128849">‘They asked me to fix it, and I did’: Italian painter restores angel’s face in church — critics say it now looks like Giorgia Meloni</a>&nbsp;Trump issued a warning to Iran amid the diplomatic tensions. During a press conference on Friday (Jan 30), the American president said he hopes a deal with Tehran can be finalised. "We are sending a larger number of ships to Iran. They should make a deal; if they don't, we'll see what happens," he said, while repeating: “We have a large armada heading towards Iran.” He kept on saying, "Iran wants to make a deal, but we will see what happens. Only Iran knows the deadline to strike a deal. I have told them directly my deadline."&nbsp;The POTUS also said that he would not reveal what his administration was planning "militariy" for Iran. "We have a powerful fleet near Iran. Adding up to 25 battleships. Will build 10 new battleships, up to 25 battleships," he said.

The US military shot down an Iranian drone that approached a US Navy aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea, a US official told the Reutrers.

The US military shot down an Iranian drone on Tuesday (Feb 3) that "aggressively" approached the Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea. This came amid the arrangement of nuclear talks between the Islamic Republic and America. The incident also occurred after the US President Donald Trump warned that with US warships heading toward Iran, "bad things" would probably happen if a deal could not be reached. The Iranian Shahed-139 drone was flying toward the carrier "with unclear intent" and was shot down by an F-35 US fighter jet, the US military said, Reuters reported. Navy Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson at the US military's Central Command, told the news agency, "An F-35C fighter jet from Abraham Lincoln shot down the Iranian drone in self-defense and to protect the aircraft carrier and personnel on board." ‘We are sending a larger number of ships to Iran’ Also read: ‘They asked me to fix it, and I did’: Italian painter restores angel’s face in church — critics say it now looks like Giorgia Meloni Trump issued a warning to Iran amid the diplomatic tensions. During a press conference on Friday (Jan 30), the American president said he hopes a deal with Tehran can be finalised. "We are sending a larger number of ships to Iran. They should make a deal; if they don't, we'll see what happens," he said, while repeating: “We have a large armada heading towards Iran.” He kept on saying, "Iran wants to make a deal, but we will see what happens. Only Iran knows the deadline to strike a deal. I have told them directly my deadline." The POTUS also said that he would not reveal what his administration was planning "militariy" for Iran. "We have a powerful fleet near Iran. Adding up to 25 battleships. Will build 10 new battleships, up to 25 battleships," he said.

The US military shot down an Iranian drone that approached a US Navy aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea, a US official told the Reutrers.

US military shoots down Iranian drone approaching American Navy aircraft carrier

Trump hinted at possible US-Iran nuclear talks while warning of US naval deployment near Iran. Ayatollah Khamenei rejected war threats, warning of regional conflict if attacked. Global powers fear escalation as Iran-US tensions and Axis of Resistance rhetoric intensify.

Trump hinted at possible US-Iran nuclear talks while warning of US naval deployment near Iran. Ayatollah Khamenei rejected war threats, warning of regional conflict if attacked. Global powers fear escalation as Iran-US tensions and Axis of Resistance rhetoric intensify.

'We'll make a deal' vs 'not initiators of war': Trump, Khamenei escalate rhetoric as Iran, US tensions continue — What's happening

Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a stark warning to the United States on Sunday (Feb 1) said any misadventure by Washington would lead to a “regional war” in the Mideast. The statement by Khamenei comes amid US President Donald Trump's &nbsp;military action against Iran over its killing of peaceful protesters. Trump last night reiterated that "very big" American warships were moving towards the region.&nbsp;"America should know that if it starts a war, this time it will be a regional war," said Khamenei to the local media, reported Sky news.&nbsp;"We are not the ones who start a war and we do not want to attack any country, but if America attacks or harms Iran the Iranian nation will deliver a strong blow and any war started by America will spread across the region," he added.&nbsp;This is for the first time that Khamenei, 86, has made such a direct statement amid reports of aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and associated American warships in the Arabian Sea, sent by Trump.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nipah-virus-two-confirmed-cases-sparks-travel-screening-across-asia-us-on-high-alert-as-cdc-monitors-developments-1769941831809">Nipah virus: Two confirmed cases sparks travel screening across Asia; US on high alert as CDC monitors developments</a>&nbsp;Despite threatening Iran of an attack, it is unclear how Trump will react as on several occasions he has said that Tehran wants to negotiate.&nbsp;On the other hand, Khamenei has always referred to the protests as a "coup" and has detained tens of thousands of people involved in the demonstrations against the regime.&nbsp;“The recent sedition was similar to a coup. Of course, the coup was suppressed,” he said.&nbsp;“Their goal was to destroy sensitive and effective centers involved in running the country, and for this reason they attacked the police, government centers, (Revolutionary Guard) facilities, banks and mosques — and burned copies of the Quran. They targeted centers that run the country," Khamenei added.&nbsp;

This is for the first time that Khamenei, 86, has made such a direct statement amid reports of aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and associated American warships in the Arabian Sea.

Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a stark warning to the United States on Sunday (Feb 1) said any misadventure by Washington would lead to a “regional war” in the Mideast. The statement by Khamenei comes amid US President Donald Trump's military action against Iran over its killing of peaceful protesters. Trump last night reiterated that "very big" American warships were moving towards the region. "America should know that if it starts a war, this time it will be a regional war," said Khamenei to the local media, reported Sky news. "We are not the ones who start a war and we do not want to attack any country, but if America attacks or harms Iran the Iranian nation will deliver a strong blow and any war started by America will spread across the region," he added. This is for the first time that Khamenei, 86, has made such a direct statement amid reports of aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and associated American warships in the Arabian Sea, sent by Trump. ALSO READ: Nipah virus: Two confirmed cases sparks travel screening across Asia; US on high alert as CDC monitors developments Despite threatening Iran of an attack, it is unclear how Trump will react as on several occasions he has said that Tehran wants to negotiate. On the other hand, Khamenei has always referred to the protests as a "coup" and has detained tens of thousands of people involved in the demonstrations against the regime. “The recent sedition was similar to a coup. Of course, the coup was suppressed,” he said. “Their goal was to destroy sensitive and effective centers involved in running the country, and for this reason they attacked the police, government centers, (Revolutionary Guard) facilities, banks and mosques — and burned copies of the Quran. They targeted centers that run the country," Khamenei added.

This is for the first time that Khamenei, 86, has made such a direct statement amid reports of aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and associated American warships in the Arabian Sea.

US misadventure will lead to 'regional war' in Mideast: Iran's supreme leader Khamenei's stern warning to Trump

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has sent a warning message to Iran over President Trump's repeated threat to the regime. Speaking to a local news channel he said that the President keeps his promises and should be taken seriously as he can do anything for the people of Iran who have laid their lives in the protests.&nbsp;“This is a president who has made many promises; you’ll be hard-pressed to find one that he hasn’t kept,” Huckabee told Channel 12 News, as reported by The Times of Israel.&nbsp;Huckabee goes on to say, “He doesn’t make empty threats", and added “What I would say to [the people of Iran] is, note carefully what the president says, take him at his word. He will keep his promise."<h2>Trump “not afraid to do what he proved”</h2>&nbsp;However, he clarified that no decision has been reached upon by US officials about attacking Tehran.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-have-never-been-to-any-elon-musk-breaks-silence-over-his-emails-with-epstein-calls-for-arrest-1769909563412">'I have never been to any...': Elon Musk breaks silence over his emails with Epstein, calls for arrest</a>&nbsp;“I would say that the decision still needs to be made,” said Huckabee said on the possibility of an attack by US.&nbsp;“President Trump is always hopeful for the best outcome. He is, in fact, let’s never forget, ‘the art of the deal.’ And if he can get that, then that’s ideal," he added.&nbsp;He was also quick to warn that if Tehran does not reach to a solution with Trump then it could face a similar fate as in June 2025, when US attacked Iran’s nuclear facilities.&nbsp;“But if he can’t, he’s not afraid to do what he proved he would do last summer when he instigated Midnight Hammer,” Huckabee

Huckabee said that if Tehran does not reach to a solution with Trump then it could face a similar fate as in June 2025, when US attacked Iran’s nuclear facilities.

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has sent a warning message to Iran over President Trump's repeated threat to the regime. Speaking to a local news channel he said that the President keeps his promises and should be taken seriously as he can do anything for the people of Iran who have laid their lives in the protests. “This is a president who has made many promises; you’ll be hard-pressed to find one that he hasn’t kept,” Huckabee told Channel 12 News, as reported by The Times of Israel. Huckabee goes on to say, “He doesn’t make empty threats", and added “What I would say to [the people of Iran] is, note carefully what the president says, take him at his word. He will keep his promise." Trump “not afraid to do what he proved” However, he clarified that no decision has been reached upon by US officials about attacking Tehran. ALSO READ: 'I have never been to any...': Elon Musk breaks silence over his emails with Epstein, calls for arrest “I would say that the decision still needs to be made,” said Huckabee said on the possibility of an attack by US. “President Trump is always hopeful for the best outcome. He is, in fact, let’s never forget, ‘the art of the deal.’ And if he can get that, then that’s ideal," he added. He was also quick to warn that if Tehran does not reach to a solution with Trump then it could face a similar fate as in June 2025, when US attacked Iran’s nuclear facilities. “But if he can’t, he’s not afraid to do what he proved he would do last summer when he instigated Midnight Hammer,” Huckabee

Huckabee said that if Tehran does not reach to a solution with Trump then it could face a similar fate as in June 2025, when US attacked Iran’s nuclear facilities.

US ambassador to Israel has a word of caution for Tehran, says Trump not making empty threats

Iran’s top security official on Saturday (Jan 31) said that progress has been made toward negotiations with the United States, even as senior military leaders warned Washington against launching any strikes on Iranian targets.<h2>What did Iran say about talks with the US?</h2>Ali Larijani, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said that despite the "hype of the contrived media war, structural arrangements for negotiations are progressing". He made the remarks a day after holding talks in Moscow with Russian President Vladimir Putin.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-hopefully-we-won-t-have-to-use-it-trump-confirms-very-big-very-powerful-ships-heading-to-iran-1769735829348">‘Hopefully we won’t have to use it’: Trump confirms ‘very big, very powerful ships’ heading to Iran</a><h2>Trump confirms dialogue</h2>Later in the day, US President Donald Trump also confirmed that discussions were underway, even as he kept the threat of force firmly on the table. "(Iran is) talking to us, and we'll see if we can do something, otherwise we'll see what happens," Trump told Fox News while reiterating ominously, "We have a big fleet heading out there.""They are negotiating," he added.The United States has deployed warships led by the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier off Iran’s shores, following Trump’s threats of intervention after Tehran’s violent crackdown on anti-government protests.<h2>Tehran pushes de-escalation</h2>Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian struck a more conciliatory tone, warning that a broader conflict would hurt both sides.“The Islamic Republic of Iran has never sought war, and in no way seeks war,” he said during a phone call with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, according to Iranian state media. “A war would be in the interest of neither Iran, nor the United States, nor the region.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-us-its-forces-have-fingers-on-the-trigger-astrump-threatens-tehran-with-major-destruction-1769650180755">Iran warns US its forces have ‘fingers on the trigger’ as Trump threatens Tehran with 'major destruction'</a><h2>Military warnings remain</h2>Despite the diplomatic signals, Iran’s military leadership has issued blunt warnings. Army chief Amir Hatami has warned America that Iranian forces were at "full defensive and military readiness" and warned the US and Israel against any attack."If the enemy makes a mistake, without a doubt it will endanger its own security, the security of the region, and the security of the Zionist regime," Hatami said, adding that Iran’s nuclear technology "cannot be eliminated".Tehran has said it is open to nuclear negotiations, but only if its missile programme and defence capabilities are excluded from talks.

Iran says talks with the US are making progress, with senior official Ali Larijani confirming “structural arrangements” for negotiations. Trump also acknowledged dialogue but kept military threats alive, saying 'we'll see what happens', as US warships move closer to Iran. 

Iran’s top security official on Saturday (Jan 31) said that progress has been made toward negotiations with the United States, even as senior military leaders warned Washington against launching any strikes on Iranian targets. What did Iran say about talks with the US? Ali Larijani, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said that despite the "hype of the contrived media war, structural arrangements for negotiations are progressing". He made the remarks a day after holding talks in Moscow with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Also read | ‘Hopefully we won’t have to use it’: Trump confirms ‘very big, very powerful ships’ heading to Iran Trump confirms dialogue Later in the day, US President Donald Trump also confirmed that discussions were underway, even as he kept the threat of force firmly on the table. "(Iran is) talking to us, and we'll see if we can do something, otherwise we'll see what happens," Trump told Fox News while reiterating ominously, "We have a big fleet heading out there." "They are negotiating," he added. The United States has deployed warships led by the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier off Iran’s shores, following Trump’s threats of intervention after Tehran’s violent crackdown on anti-government protests. Tehran pushes de-escalation Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian struck a more conciliatory tone, warning that a broader conflict would hurt both sides. “The Islamic Republic of Iran has never sought war, and in no way seeks war,” he said during a phone call with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, according to Iranian state media. “A war would be in the interest of neither Iran, nor the United States, nor the region.” Also read | Iran warns US its forces have ‘fingers on the trigger’ as Trump threatens Tehran with 'major destruction' Military warnings remain Despite the diplomatic signals, Iran’s military leadership has issued blunt warnings. Army chief Amir Hatami has warned America that Iranian forces were at "full defensive and military readiness" and warned the US and Israel against any attack. "If the enemy makes a mistake, without a doubt it will endanger its own security, the security of the region, and the security of the Zionist regime," Hatami said, adding that Iran’s nuclear technology "cannot be eliminated". Tehran has said it is open to nuclear negotiations, but only if its missile programme and defence capabilities are excluded from talks.

Iran says talks with the US are making progress, with senior official Ali Larijani confirming “structural arrangements” for negotiations. Trump also acknowledged dialogue but kept military threats alive, saying, 'we'll see what happens', as US warships move closer to Iran.&nbsp;

Iran slams ‘contrived media war’, confirms US talks as Trump warns ‘we’ll see what happens’ with USS Abraham Lincoln

Iran has signaled its willingness to restart nuclear negotiations with the United States, provided the talks are conducted “on an equal footing,” according to Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Speaking on Friday (January 30) in Istanbul alongside his Turkish counterpart, Araghchi reiterated Iran’s long-standing position that the country has no intention of pursuing nuclear weapons. Turkey has offered to help ease rising tensions between Tehran and Washington.&nbsp;&nbsp;President Recep Tayyip Erdogan conveyed this message in a phone call earlier on Friday with Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, according to the Turkish presidency. Erdogan said Ankara is prepared to play a mediating role to reduce tensions and address the ongoing disputes, particularly amid what both leaders described as escalating military risks in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/treason-much-canada-host-of-sikh-separatists-cries-sovereignty-as-alberta-independence-group-meets-trump-officials-1769773340623">Treason much? Canada, host of Sikh separatists, cries ‘sovereignty’ as Alberta independence group meets Trump officials</a>&nbsp;The conversation took place as Araghchi was in Istanbul for high-level discussions related to the issue. At the same time, Turkey’s foreign minister warned that Israel is pressuring the United States to consider military action against Iran. Speaking at the joint press conference, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan urged Washington to resist such calls, cautioning that a strike would inflict serious damage on an already fragile region. “We see that Israel is trying to persuade the US to launch a military attack on Iran… We hope the US administration will act with common sense and not allow this to happen,” Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said during a joint press conference in Istanbul with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/neuralink-chip-helps-paralysed-patient-move-cursor-using-brain-signals-wion-1769769367008/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/neuralink-chip-helps-paralysed-patient-move-cursor-using-brain-signals-wion-1769769367008/embed</a>&nbsp;Iran’s judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, warned on Friday that European countries would face repercussions following the EU’s decision to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization. "There is no doubt that the hostile action of the Europeans, who labelled the Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation, will not go unanswered," Ejei was quoted by state television as saying, adding that "they will suffer the consequences of their foolish act," without elaborating.

'Tehran is prepared for resumption of talks with the US': Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

Iran has signaled its willingness to restart nuclear negotiations with the United States, provided the talks are conducted “on an equal footing,” according to Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Speaking on Friday (January 30) in Istanbul alongside his Turkish counterpart, Araghchi reiterated Iran’s long-standing position that the country has no intention of pursuing nuclear weapons. Turkey has offered to help ease rising tensions between Tehran and Washington. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan conveyed this message in a phone call earlier on Friday with Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, according to the Turkish presidency. Erdogan said Ankara is prepared to play a mediating role to reduce tensions and address the ongoing disputes, particularly amid what both leaders described as escalating military risks in the region. Also Read: Treason much? Canada, host of Sikh separatists, cries ‘sovereignty’ as Alberta independence group meets Trump officials The conversation took place as Araghchi was in Istanbul for high-level discussions related to the issue. At the same time, Turkey’s foreign minister warned that Israel is pressuring the United States to consider military action against Iran. Speaking at the joint press conference, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan urged Washington to resist such calls, cautioning that a strike would inflict serious damage on an already fragile region. “We see that Israel is trying to persuade the US to launch a military attack on Iran… We hope the US administration will act with common sense and not allow this to happen,” Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said during a joint press conference in Istanbul with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi. https://www.wionews.com/videos/neuralink-chip-helps-paralysed-patient-move-cursor-using-brain-signals-wion-1769769367008/embed Iran’s judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, warned on Friday that European countries would face repercussions following the EU’s decision to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization. "There is no doubt that the hostile action of the Europeans, who labelled the Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation, will not go unanswered," Ejei was quoted by state television as saying, adding that "they will suffer the consequences of their foolish act," without elaborating.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, during a press conference on Friday (January 30), said that Tehran is ready for the resumption of talks with the United States

The Constant Phoenix is a specialised United States Air Force aircraft designed to detect radioactive particles in the atmosphere and monitor nuclear activity.

The Constant Phoenix is a specialised United States Air Force aircraft designed to detect radioactive particles in the atmosphere and monitor nuclear activity.

Is US preparing for Iran? Rare ‘nuke sniffer’ plane lands in Britain as Trump weighs action on Tehran

Iran military action: The United States has reportedly deployed drones to survey Iran's defences. The action came on Thursday night (January 29), according to reports. Meanwhile, at least 10 US warships are also near the Middle East.

Iran military action: The United States has reportedly deployed drones to survey Iran's defences. The action came on Thursday night (January 29), according to reports. Meanwhile, at least 10 US warships are also near the Middle East.

US deploys drones to survey Iran; at least 10 warships stationed in Middle East

US President Donald Trump's aides are considering several new military options against Iran, which go beyond the ones on the table during the recent protests against Tehran’s government, the New York Times claimed in a report. Earlier, Trump had warned of action if the killing of protesters do not stop, and claimed credit after some scheduled executions were reportedly postponed. However, Iranian government later rejected the postponements were due to US pressure. The new, expanded list of options presented to Trump in recent days could include further damage to Iranian nuclear and missile facilities, or attempts to weaken Iran’s supreme leader, claimed the NYT report, citing officials in the know.<h2>New plans go beyond those considered during protests against Iran’s government</h2>A newly expanded list of options presented to Trump include damaging Iran’s nuclear and missile facilities and actions aimed at weakening its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. One option involves raids inside Iran by American forces, similar to the operation in Venezuala in early January.&nbsp;US commandos could destroy or badly damage parts of the nuclear programme not already hit in US bombing last June.Trump aides are also weighing the possibility of a change in government. An option is a series of strikes on military and leadership targets, potentially creating conditions for Iranian forces or others to remove the supreme leader, claimed the report. It is unclear who would govern if he were removed.A third option, preferred by Israel, is another strike on Iran’s ballistic missile programme, which had been largely rebuilt since Israel’s attack during the 12-day war last June, officials told NYT. Iranian missiles can currently reach civilian and military targets across Israel.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-hopefully-we-won-t-have-to-use-it-trump-confirms-very-big-very-powerful-ships-heading-to-iran-1769735829348">‘Hopefully we won’t have to use it’: Trump confirms ‘very big, very powerful ships’ heading to Iran</a><h2>US military buildup around Iran: What is the current status?</h2>The US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln is within striking distance of Iran, armed with F/A-18s and F-35s, accompanied by three missile-firing destroyers. The US has sent a dozen additional F-15E attack planes to the region too.More Patriot and THAAD air defence systems have been deployed to protect US troops from retaliatory Iranian missile strikes. Long-range bombers based in the US remain on higher-than-usual alert, the NYT report said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/can-iran-really-sink-the-uss-abraham-lincoln-with-its-radar-evading-low-altitude-missiles-1769679462353">Can Iran really sink the USS Abraham Lincoln with its radar-evading low-altitude missiles?</a><h2>What were Trump's earlier options against Iran?</h2>At the height of Iran protests, the Trump administration considered strikes on Iran’s nuclear programme and symbolic targets such as the Basij militia headquarters. Trump warned of action if killings of protesters did not stop, while halting plans for military action.Reports said several Arab US allies asked Trump to avoid or postpone strikes. Iran has now warned that any country allowing its territory to be used by the US would be a legitimate target. Some Arab nations may have refused to provide launchpads for US strikes. Reports said Israel also asked Trump to postpone action at the time.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-vows-to-defy-us-attack-signals-readiness-for-nuclear-agreement-1769754040112/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-vows-to-defy-us-attack-signals-readiness-for-nuclear-agreement-1769754040112/embed</a><h2>Iran options for the US : Venezuela redux?</h2>The Iran buildup mirrors Venezuela, where US forces operated for weeks under anti-narcotics missions before a direct action in Caracas led to the extraction of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, following the failure of diplomatic and backchannel efforts.But Iran is different. An operation would be far more difficult and dangerous, as Tehran is a much more capable adversary. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said regime change in Iran would be far more complex than in Venezuela.<h2>US demands on Iran: A tough pill to swallow</h2>The US wants Iran to permanently stop uranium enrichment, surrender nuclear stockpiles including over 960 pounds enriched to near-bomb-grade levels (much of which is now believed to be under rubble from June’s US strikes), limit the range and number of ballistic missiles, and end support for Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis.These conditions would render Iran largely powerless and unable to strike Israel.<h2>Trump combines threats with diplomacy</h2>Trump has threatened military action larger than June’s strikes, with speed and violence, but says he hopes Iran will quickly return to negotiations. &nbsp;Despite his warnings of an “armada” moving toward Iran, Trump has not authorised military action, signalling openness to further talks. The threat is aimed at forcing Iran to the negotiating table.Trump hopes no action will be necessary, but Iran should make a deal before it is too late, said White House spokesperson Anna Kelly. Trump, she said, has many options regarding Iran.

Trump aides are weighing expanded military options against Iran than previously considered. It includes raids inside Iranian territory. Trump is threatening force but also signalling diplomacy to pressure Iran into talks. Tehran is not budging, till now

US President Donald Trump's aides are considering several new military options against Iran, which go beyond the ones on the table during the recent protests against Tehran’s government, the New York Times claimed in a report. Earlier, Trump had warned of action if the killing of protesters do not stop, and claimed credit after some scheduled executions were reportedly postponed. However, Iranian government later rejected the postponements were due to US pressure. The new, expanded list of options presented to Trump in recent days could include further damage to Iranian nuclear and missile facilities, or attempts to weaken Iran’s supreme leader, claimed the NYT report, citing officials in the know. New plans go beyond those considered during protests against Iran’s government A newly expanded list of options presented to Trump include damaging Iran’s nuclear and missile facilities and actions aimed at weakening its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. One option involves raids inside Iran by American forces, similar to the operation in Venezuala in early January. US commandos could destroy or badly damage parts of the nuclear programme not already hit in US bombing last June. Trump aides are also weighing the possibility of a change in government. An option is a series of strikes on military and leadership targets, potentially creating conditions for Iranian forces or others to remove the supreme leader, claimed the report. It is unclear who would govern if he were removed. A third option, preferred by Israel, is another strike on Iran’s ballistic missile programme, which had been largely rebuilt since Israel’s attack during the 12-day war last June, officials told NYT. Iranian missiles can currently reach civilian and military targets across Israel. Also read: ‘Hopefully we won’t have to use it’: Trump confirms ‘very big, very powerful ships’ heading to Iran US military buildup around Iran: What is the current status? The US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln is within striking distance of Iran, armed with F/A-18s and F-35s, accompanied by three missile-firing destroyers. The US has sent a dozen additional F-15E attack planes to the region too. More Patriot and THAAD air defence systems have been deployed to protect US troops from retaliatory Iranian missile strikes. Long-range bombers based in the US remain on higher-than-usual alert, the NYT report said. Also read: Can Iran really sink the USS Abraham Lincoln with its radar-evading low-altitude missiles? What were Trump's earlier options against Iran? At the height of Iran protests, the Trump administration considered strikes on Iran’s nuclear programme and symbolic targets such as the Basij militia headquarters. Trump warned of action if killings of protesters did not stop, while halting plans for military action. Reports said several Arab US allies asked Trump to avoid or postpone strikes. Iran has now warned that any country allowing its territory to be used by the US would be a legitimate target. Some Arab nations may have refused to provide launchpads for US strikes. Reports said Israel also asked Trump to postpone action at the time. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-vows-to-defy-us-attack-signals-readiness-for-nuclear-agreement-1769754040112/embed Iran options for the US : Venezuela redux? The Iran buildup mirrors Venezuela, where US forces operated for weeks under anti-narcotics missions before a direct action in Caracas led to the extraction of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, following the failure of diplomatic and backchannel efforts. But Iran is different. An operation would be far more difficult and dangerous, as Tehran is a much more capable adversary. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said regime change in Iran would be far more complex than in Venezuela. US demands on Iran: A tough pill to swallow The US wants Iran to permanently stop uranium enrichment, surrender nuclear stockpiles including over 960 pounds enriched to near-bomb-grade levels (much of which is now believed to be under rubble from June’s US strikes), limit the range and number of ballistic missiles, and end support for Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis. These conditions would render Iran largely powerless and unable to strike Israel. Trump combines threats with diplomacy Trump has threatened military action larger than June’s strikes, with speed and violence, but says he hopes Iran will quickly return to negotiations. Despite his warnings of an “armada” moving toward Iran, Trump has not authorised military action, signalling openness to further talks. The threat is aimed at forcing Iran to the negotiating table. Trump hopes no action will be necessary, but Iran should make a deal before it is too late, said White House spokesperson Anna Kelly. Trump, she said, has many options regarding Iran.

Trump aides are weighing expanded military options against Iran than previously considered. It includes raids inside Iranian territory. Trump is threatening force but also signalling diplomacy to pressure Iran into talks. Tehran is not budging, till now

US attack on Iran: Raids inside Iranian territory, similar to Venezuela, among Trump's new options on table, claims report

Spare a thought for the courageous Iranians who braved their brutal government in the belief that US President Donald Trump meant it when he issued a social media post saying that HELP IS ON THE WAY.Issued on January 13 after two nights of some of the largest anti-government protests in Iranian history, the posting said:Iranian Patriots, KEEP PROTESTING — TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!! Save the names of the killers and abusers. They will pay a big price. I have cancelled all meetings with Iranian Officials until the senseless killing of protesters STOPS. HELP IS ON ITS WAY. MIGA!!! PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP.The help would come, Trump said, unless government forces would stop killing protesters. But the killing continued. Estimates of the death toll range from 6,159 (from an Iranian Human Rights group) to more than 30,000 ( from TIME magazine.. The Iranian government put the toll at 3,117.Trump never clarified how long he thought it would take help to arrive. But it is easy to see why some Iranians thought it would be soon —in the form or air strikes or a special operations attack on the model of the daring attack on Caracas that resulted in the capture and abduction of Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro just ten days before the “help is on the way” promise.What was on the way was what Trump called “a massive armada” –the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier accompanied by three guided missile destroyers. The strike group, part of America’s overwhelming military superiority, arrived in the Indian Ocean on January 26 within striking distance to possible targets in Iran.Killing demonstrators as a trigger for American action has disappeared from the White House vocabulary, which instead switched to long-standing American demands for Iranian policy changes.Though the demands have not been officially announced, American and European officials said they included an end to all enrichment of uranium, limits on the number and range of ballistic missiles and breaking links with the armed groups serving as proxies for the Tehran rulers. The groups include Lebanon-based Hezbollah and Gaza’s Hamas.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-hopefully-we-won-t-have-to-use-it-trump-confirms-very-big-very-powerful-ships-heading-to-iran-1769735829348">‘Hopefully we won’t have to use it’: Trump confirms ‘very big, very powerful ships’ heading to Iran</a>Trump drew parallels between the vast naval force assembled in the waters off Venezuela before Maduro was snatched and the new build-up in striking distance of Iran and urged its leaders to negotiate a deal on its nuclear programme. “Time is running out, it is truly of the essence,” he told reporters.One of the options under discussion by Trump and his closest aides, according to sources close to the White House, are air strikes on Iranian leaders and security forces to trigger another round of popular protests so widespread that the leadership of the regime would have to change.But the protest movement has been so cowed and weakened by the slaughter of thousands in recent days that it takes a large dose of optimism to consider it a possibility.While pondering the options, Washington has run into an unexpected obstacle: vocal opposition to a military strike from America’s closest allies in the region – Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Republic, Qatar and Oman. Saudi Arabia has ruled out the use of its airspace and territory for a U.S. attack. &nbsp;The reason is fear that Iran could retaliate with attacks on U.S. allies – and worries that chaos could ensue in Iran if the regime fell. &nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-us-its-forces-have-fingers-on-the-trigger-astrump-threatens-tehran-with-major-destruction-1769650180755">Iran warns US its forces have ‘fingers on the trigger’ as Trump threatens Tehran with ‘major destruction’</a>Another outcome that is part of the considerations is direct attacks on U.S. installations. While Iran’s arsenal of ballistic missiles shrank during the 12-day war with Israel last year, it is thought to have enough left to hit most of the military bases the U.S. maintains in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.The biggest U.S. military institution in the Middle East is al Udeid airbase, which houses more than 10,000 Americans and is the headquarters of the U.S. Central Command, which coordinates air operations across Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan. As the prospect of war drew nearer, several hundred U.S. military have been evacuated from the base.One of the darkest scenarios for Iranian retaliation would be laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz between Iran and Oman. A critical global trade route, it carries about a fifth of liquefied natural gas exports and a quarter of oil worldwide. Mining that waterway would seriously damage the global economy.On the diplomatic front, Iran suffered a long-delayed blow from the European Union on Thursday (January 29); EU foreign ministers designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps as a terrorist organisation. Meeting in Brussels, the ministers also froze the assets and banned visas for 15 individuals.EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said the move was “long overdue”, a nod to Washington which designated the Revolutionary Guards a terrorist group in 2019. “Terrorist is indeed how you call a regime that crushes its own people’s protests in blood.”

While pondering the options, Washington has run into an unexpected obstacle: vocal opposition to a military strike from America’s closest allies in the region – Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Republic, Qatar and Oman. 

Spare a thought for the courageous Iranians who braved their brutal government in the belief that US President Donald Trump meant it when he issued a social media post saying that HELP IS ON THE WAY. Issued on January 13 after two nights of some of the largest anti-government protests in Iranian history, the posting said: Iranian Patriots, KEEP PROTESTING — TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!! Save the names of the killers and abusers. They will pay a big price. I have cancelled all meetings with Iranian Officials until the senseless killing of protesters STOPS. HELP IS ON ITS WAY. MIGA!!! PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP. The help would come, Trump said, unless government forces would stop killing protesters. But the killing continued. Estimates of the death toll range from 6,159 (from an Iranian Human Rights group) to more than 30,000 ( from TIME magazine.. The Iranian government put the toll at 3,117. Trump never clarified how long he thought it would take help to arrive. But it is easy to see why some Iranians thought it would be soon —in the form or air strikes or a special operations attack on the model of the daring attack on Caracas that resulted in the capture and abduction of Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro just ten days before the “help is on the way” promise. What was on the way was what Trump called “a massive armada” –the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier accompanied by three guided missile destroyers. The strike group, part of America’s overwhelming military superiority, arrived in the Indian Ocean on January 26 within striking distance to possible targets in Iran. Killing demonstrators as a trigger for American action has disappeared from the White House vocabulary, which instead switched to long-standing American demands for Iranian policy changes. Though the demands have not been officially announced, American and European officials said they included an end to all enrichment of uranium, limits on the number and range of ballistic missiles and breaking links with the armed groups serving as proxies for the Tehran rulers. The groups include Lebanon-based Hezbollah and Gaza’s Hamas. Also read | ‘Hopefully we won’t have to use it’: Trump confirms ‘very big, very powerful ships’ heading to Iran Trump drew parallels between the vast naval force assembled in the waters off Venezuela before Maduro was snatched and the new build-up in striking distance of Iran and urged its leaders to negotiate a deal on its nuclear programme. “Time is running out, it is truly of the essence,” he told reporters. One of the options under discussion by Trump and his closest aides, according to sources close to the White House, are air strikes on Iranian leaders and security forces to trigger another round of popular protests so widespread that the leadership of the regime would have to change. But the protest movement has been so cowed and weakened by the slaughter of thousands in recent days that it takes a large dose of optimism to consider it a possibility. While pondering the options, Washington has run into an unexpected obstacle: vocal opposition to a military strike from America’s closest allies in the region – Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Republic, Qatar and Oman. Saudi Arabia has ruled out the use of its airspace and territory for a U.S. attack. The reason is fear that Iran could retaliate with attacks on U.S. allies – and worries that chaos could ensue in Iran if the regime fell. Also read | Iran warns US its forces have ‘fingers on the trigger’ as Trump threatens Tehran with ‘major destruction’ Another outcome that is part of the considerations is direct attacks on U.S. installations. While Iran’s arsenal of ballistic missiles shrank during the 12-day war with Israel last year, it is thought to have enough left to hit most of the military bases the U.S. maintains in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The biggest U.S. military institution in the Middle East is al Udeid airbase, which houses more than 10,000 Americans and is the headquarters of the U.S. Central Command, which coordinates air operations across Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan. As the prospect of war drew nearer, several hundred U.S. military have been evacuated from the base. One of the darkest scenarios for Iranian retaliation would be laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz between Iran and Oman. A critical global trade route, it carries about a fifth of liquefied natural gas exports and a quarter of oil worldwide. Mining that waterway would seriously damage the global economy. On the diplomatic front, Iran suffered a long-delayed blow from the European Union on Thursday (January 29); EU foreign ministers designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps as a terrorist organisation. Meeting in Brussels, the ministers also froze the assets and banned visas for 15 individuals. EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said the move was “long overdue”, a nod to Washington which designated the Revolutionary Guards a terrorist group in 2019. “Terrorist is indeed how you call a regime that crushes its own people’s protests in blood.”

While pondering the options, Washington has run into an unexpected obstacle: vocal opposition to a military strike from America’s closest allies in the region – Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Republic, Qatar and Oman.&nbsp;

Trump’s Iran conundrum: Choosing between bad options

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 29) said he hoped to avoid military action against Iran, but warned that “very big, very powerful ships" were sailing to Iran, even as he revealed plans to have further talks with Tehran on a possible nuclear deal. This comes as Iran, a day earlier, warned the United States that Tehran's armed forces have their "fingers on the trigger" and will respond "like never before" if America launches military strikes. The message came hours after Trump threatened "major destruction" and said a US naval armada was moving toward Iran at speed.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-us-its-forces-have-fingers-on-the-trigger-astrump-threatens-tehran-with-major-destruction-1769650180755">Iran warns US its forces have ‘fingers on the trigger’ as Trump threatens Tehran with 'major destruction'</a><h2>“Hopefully” won't have to use US military might</h2>Speaking to reporters at the premiere of a documentary about his wife, Melania Trump, the POTUS said, “I built (up) the military in my first term, and now we have a group headed out to a place called Iran, and hopefully we won't have to use it.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-very-disappointing-trump-s-top-aide-attacks-eu-over-mother-of-all-deals-with-india-1769648927238">‘Very disappointing’: Trump’s top aide attacks EU over ‘Mother of all deals’ with India</a>When asked if he was open to talks with Iran, Trump said: "I have had, and I am planning on it. Yes, we have a lot of very big, very powerful ships sailing to Iran right now, and it would be great if we didn't have to use them."<h2>Trump changing tune on Iran?</h2>In recent days, Trump has intensified tensions with Iran, warning the nation that "time is running out" for Tehran to negotiate a deal regarding its nuclear programme. Writing on Truth Social on Wednesday, Trump had said a "massive Armada" led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln was heading toward Iranian waters."It is moving quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose," he wrote. Comparing the fleet to the one that carried out Operation Absolute Resolve, which ended with the capture of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, he added, "Like with Venezuela, it is ready, willing, and able to rapidly fulfil its mission, with speed and violence, if necessary".Trump urged Tehran to abandon its nuclear programme and return to negotiations. "Hopefully Iran will quickly 'Come to the Table' and negotiate a fair and equitable deal – NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS – one that is good for all parties.""Time is running out, it is truly of the essence!" he warned. "As I told Iran once before, MAKE A DEAL! They didn't, and there was 'Operation Midnight Hammer,' a major destruction of Iran. The next attack will be far worse! Don't make that happen again."&nbsp;

Donald Trump said he hopes to avoid military action against Iran but warned that “very big, very powerful ships” are heading toward the country. He confirmed plans for further talks with Tehran on a nuclear deal, saying force remains an option if diplomacy fails.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 29) said he hoped to avoid military action against Iran, but warned that “very big, very powerful ships" were sailing to Iran, even as he revealed plans to have further talks with Tehran on a possible nuclear deal. This comes as Iran, a day earlier, warned the United States that Tehran's armed forces have their "fingers on the trigger" and will respond "like never before" if America launches military strikes. The message came hours after Trump threatened "major destruction" and said a US naval armada was moving toward Iran at speed. Also read | Iran warns US its forces have ‘fingers on the trigger’ as Trump threatens Tehran with 'major destruction' “Hopefully” won't have to use US military might Speaking to reporters at the premiere of a documentary about his wife, Melania Trump, the POTUS said, “I built (up) the military in my first term, and now we have a group headed out to a place called Iran, and hopefully we won't have to use it.” Also read | ‘Very disappointing’: Trump’s top aide attacks EU over ‘Mother of all deals’ with India When asked if he was open to talks with Iran, Trump said: "I have had, and I am planning on it. Yes, we have a lot of very big, very powerful ships sailing to Iran right now, and it would be great if we didn't have to use them." Trump changing tune on Iran? In recent days, Trump has intensified tensions with Iran, warning the nation that "time is running out" for Tehran to negotiate a deal regarding its nuclear programme. Writing on Truth Social on Wednesday, Trump had said a "massive Armada" led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln was heading toward Iranian waters. "It is moving quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose," he wrote. Comparing the fleet to the one that carried out Operation Absolute Resolve, which ended with the capture of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, he added, "Like with Venezuela, it is ready, willing, and able to rapidly fulfil its mission, with speed and violence, if necessary". Trump urged Tehran to abandon its nuclear programme and return to negotiations. "Hopefully Iran will quickly 'Come to the Table' and negotiate a fair and equitable deal – NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS – one that is good for all parties." "Time is running out, it is truly of the essence!" he warned. "As I told Iran once before, MAKE A DEAL! They didn't, and there was 'Operation Midnight Hammer,' a major destruction of Iran. The next attack will be far worse! Don't make that happen again."

Donald Trump said he hopes to avoid military action against Iran but warned that “very big, very powerful ships” are heading toward the country. He confirmed plans for further talks with Tehran on a nuclear deal, saying force remains an option if diplomacy fails.

‘Hopefully we won’t have to use it’: Trump confirms ‘very big, very powerful ships’ heading to Iran

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