Trump Calls for Diplomacy with Iran Amid Military Build-Up

Mon Feb 02 2026 16:19:23 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In recent statements, Donald Trump laid out two key demands for Iran to avoid potential military confrontation: an end to nuclear pursuits and suppression of protests, as the U.S. enhances its military presence in the Gulf region.

Donald Trump has indicated that military action against Iran could be avoided if the country complies with two primary demands: halting its nuclear program and ceasing violence against protesters. The U.S. has intensified its military preparations, with Trump stating that having to deploy these forces would be unfavorable. Meanwhile, Iran's officials have declared readiness to respond to any aggression.

Donald Trump stated he has conveyed two essential conditions to Iran to prevent military engagement: the cessation of nuclear development and stopping the violence against protesters. Trump remarked, Number one, no nuclear. And number two, stop killing protesters, referencing widespread allegations of Iranian authorities killing protesters during recent unrest.

Emphasizing the military readiness of the U.S., he said, 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. His comments come amid escalating tensions and pressure on Iran to negotiate over its nuclear ambitions.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded claiming their armed forces were prepared to respond swiftly and decisively to any form of aggression.

These remarks by Trump followed his warning of a mass U.S. naval presence poised to act if necessary, noting on social media that he hopes Iran will engage in negotiations leading to a fair agreement free of nuclear weapons. However, Iranian officials have firmly stated their commitment to peaceful nuclear technology and have denied interests in developing nuclear weapons.

The backdrop of this diplomatic exchange is a climate of protests within Iran, where demonstrations escalated after economic turmoil and have been met with a harsh crackdown, causing thousands of deaths. Iran has stated that it welcomes negotiation towards a mutually beneficial nuclear deal, emphasizing that their rights must be ensured.