Washington, Jan 28 (NationPress) President Donald Trump urged Iran to swiftly engage in negotiations as a significant U.S. naval fleet approaches the region, intensifying pressure on Tehran amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East.

In a radio discussion with WABC host Sid Rosenberg, Trump stated, “We have a substantial armada heading over there right now,” characterizing it as “very formidable” and exceeding a recent deployment related to Venezuela. He expressed hope that military action would not be necessary, saying, “Hopefully, we won’t have to use it.”

Trump later reiterated this warning on his Truth Social platform, declaring, “A massive Armada is heading to Iran. It is moving swiftly, with great strength, enthusiasm, and purpose.” He noted that the fleet, led by the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln, is “larger than that sent to Venezuela.”

The president emphasized that the force is “ready, willing, and able to rapidly fulfill its mission, with speed and violence, if necessary.” He called on Tehran to negotiate, stating, “Hopefully Iran will quickly ‘Come to the Table’ and negotiate a fair and equitable deal — NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS — one that is beneficial for all involved.”

“Time is running out; it is truly of the essence!” Trump added.

He cautioned of severe repercussions if negotiations fail, recalling past U.S. military actions. “As I told Iran once before, MAKE A DEAL!” he wrote. “They didn’t, and there was ‘Operation Midnight Hammer,’ a significant destruction of Iran. The next attack will be far worse!”

During the radio interview, Trump linked this deployment to broader regional security concerns, particularly regarding Israel. He stated that Iran continues to pose threats to Israel, and U.S. support has helped prevent escalation, referencing recent tensions that led to Israel temporarily closing its airspace.

Trump also mentioned his administration’s success in securing the return of hostages, claiming, “We got the last of the hostages back.” He described this effort as something many thought was impossible.

He framed the move regarding Iran as part of a larger foreign policy strategy predicated on military strength and direct negotiations. He asserted that U.S. power is intended to prevent war rather than incite it, though he emphasized that force remains a viable option.

Trump positioned the Iran standoff alongside other global conflicts, including the ongoing war in Ukraine, which he described as a “bloodbath.” He expressed a desire for the fighting to cease, asserting that progress is achievable through direct discussions.

This deployment highlights Trump’s foreign policy approach, relying heavily on pressure and deterrence to compel negotiations. His message to Tehran was clear: negotiate now or prepare for significantly worse consequences.