Iran Pursues Negotiation Over Military Tensions, Says Trump

Mon Feb 02 2026 15:45:45 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In the latest developments regarding U.S.-Iran relations, President Trump asserts Iran seeks a deal in light of escalating military forces around its borders, despite Tehran's firm stance on its missile and defense systems.

President Donald Trump has revealed that Iran is interested in negotiating, rather than facing military action from the U.S. This statement comes as tensions escalate with a significant U.S. naval fleet positioned in the Gulf. Trump emphasized that time is running out for Iran to negotiate on its nuclear program, even as Iran maintains that its missile defense capabilities are non-negotiable. While discussions seem unlikely at this time, the complexity of these geopolitical dynamics continues to unfold with potential international implications.

President Donald Trump has stated that Iran wants to strike a deal to avoid military conflict, despite Iran’s firm insistence that its missile and defense systems will never be on the negotiating table.

I can say this, they do want to make a deal, Trump told reporters at the White House, addressing the situation amid the buildup of U.S. military forces in the Gulf. He did not elaborate on specifics surrounding the military presence.

On Wednesday, Trump had warned Tehran that it was running out of time to negotiate a deal concerning its nuclear program, as a large contingent of U.S. naval forces has amassed near Iranian waters.

Iran's foreign minister has indicated that there are currently no plans for talks with the U.S., although Tehran is open to negotiations rooted in mutual respect and trust.

Additionally, a meeting between Ali Larijani, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, and Russian President Vladimir Putin occurred where they discussed various regional issues, as reported by state news agency Ria-Novosti.

Iran maintains that its nuclear ambitions are solely peaceful, continuously rejecting allegations from the U.S. and its allies regarding the pursuit of nuclear weapons capability.

While Trump has indicated a desire for negotiations, he has not provided a clear timeline for the withdrawal of the military assets in the region. As tensions continue to flare, Trump insists that a significant Armada remains in proximity to Iran, with military strategy remaining fluid based on the unfolding situation.

Concerns loom large as Iran's Foreign Minister has reiterated the firm stand that its missile defense systems are not up for discussion, while also stating they are preparing for fair and just negotiations amid ongoing hostilities.

The latest warning from Trump coincides with his commitment to help in addressing the unrest within Iran, especially following reports of a violent crackdown on protests that have resulted in thousands of casualties.

According to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, over 6,300 fatalities, including more than 5,900 protesters, have been confirmed since protests erupted late December, amidst an incident in which the hopes for peaceful resolution are fading.

Trump’s warning emphasized that Iran must adhere to two conditions to avert military action: No nuclear developments and an end to the killing of protesters.