Donald Trump says he has told Iran it has to do 'two things' to avoid military action, as the US builds up its forces in the Gulf. 'Number one, no nuclear. And number two, stop killing protesters,' the US President said, adding that 'they are killing them by the thousands.' '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 remarks follow continued pressure on Iran to negotiate a deal regarding its nuclear programme.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has stated that armed forces are 'with their fingers on the trigger' to 'immediately and powerfully respond' to any aggression. Trump made these comments at the premiere of a documentary about Melania Trump. He previously expressed hope on Truth Social that Iran would 'quickly come to the table' to negotiate a fair deal, emphasizing 'NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS.'

He stated a 'massive Armada is heading to Iran,' ready to fulfill its mission if necessary.

In response, Araghchi proclaimed that Iran is open to negotiating a fair nuclear deal, free from coercion. He insisted that Iran has never sought nuclear weapons and highlighted a willingness for peaceful dialogue. However, the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency has reported that at least 6,479 individuals have been killed since unrest began in Iran, including a significant number of protesters.

Tensions continue to mount as the situation develops.