Istanbul, 30 Jan. 2026 (Anadolu)

The United States and Iran are once again at the center of rising regional tensions, following remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump indicating that a significant American naval presence is moving toward Iran, even as Washington signals openness to renewed negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program.

Speaking at the White House on Friday, President Trump said a large U.S. naval flotilla was heading toward Iran, describing it as even bigger than previous deployments in other regions. While underscoring the show of force, he also expressed hope that diplomacy could prevail. According to Trump, Washington remains willing to reach an agreement, but he made it clear that alternative options remain on the table if talks fail. He suggested that Iran is interested in a deal, though he declined to specify whether any formal deadline had been set, saying that only Iran would know the timeline.

Trump also referred to past communications with Iranian authorities, claiming that U.S. warnings had previously led Tehran to reconsider certain actions. While reiterating his belief that Iran wants to negotiate, his comments reflected a strategy that blends diplomatic outreach with military pressure.

In response, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized that meaningful diplomatic progress with the United States would only be possible if Washington abandoned threats and actions that fuel conflict in the region. His remarks came during a phone conversation with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, according to a statement from Iran’s presidency. Pezeshkian stressed that diplomacy must be grounded in goodwill, mutual trust, and respect, rather than coercion or intimidation.

He highlighted the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and engagement, warning against provocative steps that could escalate tensions. Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s commitment to what he described as “dignified diplomacy” within the framework of international law, stating that Tehran’s approach is based on mutual respect, rejection of force, and a win-win outlook. Iranian officials have repeatedly warned that any U.S. military action would be met with a swift and comprehensive response, while maintaining that Iran remains open to negotiations under fair and non-coercive conditions.

Turkey has also weighed in, voicing clear opposition to any military intervention against Iran. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Ankara consistently rejects the use of force and supports a peaceful resolution of Iran’s internal and external challenges. Speaking alongside Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Istanbul, Fidan expressed hope that Iran’s issues would be resolved by its own people without outside interference.

Taken together, the statements reflect a volatile moment marked by military posturing, diplomatic messaging, and regional concern, as global and regional actors navigate a delicate balance between pressure and dialogue.