Trump Threatens Iran, "You're Out of Time"

In a bold escalation of rhetoric, U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a fresh threat to Iran, warning that the "next attack will be much worse" if Tehran fails to come to the negotiating table for a new nuclear deal.

Trump made the comments in a recent social media post, emphasizing the urgency of the situation while highlighting the deployment of a massive U.S. naval armada heading toward Iranian waters.

"A huge armada is making its way to Iran with great speed and power, a fleet larger than the one sent to Venezuela," Trump wrote.

He expressed hope that Iran would "quickly come to the negotiating table" for a deal beneficial to all parties, but added a blunt ultimatum: "Time is running out—this is extremely urgent! Make a deal—the next attack will be much worse than the previous one. Don't let this happen again."

The president's statements come amid reports of backchannel communications between the U.S. and Iran, with Trump claiming that Iranian officials have reached out multiple times proposing talks.

Sources indicate that Steve Witkoff, a close associate of Trump, may be involved in facilitating these contacts to avert a full-scale military confrontation.

Despite the overtures, Trump has maintained a hardline stance, reiterating that the U.S. military is prepared for "very strong options" if Iran crosses certain red lines.

According to reports from Axios and other outlets, the U.S. has presented Iran with a list of stringent demands as preconditions for any negotiations.

These include:

Iranian officials have denied initiating contact for talks, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stating that Tehran has not sought negotiations with the U.S., contradicting Trump's assertions.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has warned that U.S. threats are destabilizing the region, urging allies like Saudi Arabia to recognize the risks.

The backdrop to these developments is ongoing unrest in Iran, where protests against the regime have resulted in tens of thousands of deaths amid a government crackdown.

Trump has previously threatened direct U.S. intervention to support protesters, though he has since moderated his language, claiming the killings have subsided.

U.S. officials have briefed Trump on military options, with the Pentagon presenting tailored plans to achieve strategic objectives in Iran.

Analysts suggest Trump's strategy blends maximum pressure through military posturing with diplomatic openings, aiming to force Iran into concessions. However, the likelihood of a breakthrough remains low, given past failed talks and Iran's resistance to the demands.

There are concerns that prolonged negotiations could allow Iran to buy time, potentially undermining the momentum for any U.S. or Israeli action.

Prominent voices, including Senator Lindsey Graham, have urged Trump to proceed with strikes, calling for a "right decision" to address the threat.

As U.S. warships approach and aerial drills intensify in the region, the Middle East braces for possible further escalation.