US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran, urging it to engage in negotiations over its nuclear programme while asserting that a “massive armada” led by the USS Abraham Lincoln is advancing toward the region and stands prepared to act if necessary.
In a message posted on Truth Social, Trump said the naval force was larger than a previous deployment to Venezuela and was moving swiftly with what he described as power, determination, and purpose. He warned that the armada was fully capable of carrying out its mission rapidly and forcefully if required.
Trump said he hoped Iran would promptly come forward to negotiate a fair and balanced agreement that would ensure Tehran does not develop nuclear weapons. Emphasising urgency, he said time was running out and that the situation required immediate attention.
Recalling a past confrontation, Trump wrote that he had previously urged Iran to make a deal, warning that its refusal had led to “Operation Midnight Hammer,” which he described as causing major destruction. He cautioned that any future attack would be far more severe and again urged Iran to avoid escalation by choosing talks.
Iran responded through its mission to the United Nations, saying it was open to discussions with the United States on the basis of mutual respect and shared interests, but warned that it would defend itself forcefully if provoked.
Trump later told reporters aboard Air Force One that the US was closely monitoring Iran and that a large naval fleet was heading toward the region.
Meanwhile, US Central Command announced preparations for multi-day readiness exercises aimed at improving force dispersal, strengthening regional partnerships, and ensuring the ability to respond flexibly. The drills are intended to demonstrate a credible and combat-ready US presence to deter aggression, reduce the risk of miscalculation, and reassure allies.
The announcement followed a meeting between US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper and Israeli Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, focused on enhancing defensive cooperation between the two countries.
On Monday, a US source confirmed that the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group had entered Central Command waters in the Indian Ocean. Reports said the group includes additional warships, destroyers, and fighter aircraft, highlighting the scale of the deployment.
