PARIS, Jan 31 (Alliance News): US President Donald Trump on Thursday expressed hope that military action against Iran could be averted even as Tehran has threatened to strike US bases and aircraft carriers in response to any attack, underscoring deepening tensions between the two powers.
Speaking to reporters in Paris at the premiere of a documentary about his wife, Melania, Trump said talks with Iran were ongoing and left open the possibility of avoiding conflict. “I have had, and I am planning on [talks],” he said, noting that a large US naval group was en route to the region but adding, “hopefully we won’t have to use it.”
Trump’s remarks come against a backdrop of heightened US-Iran tensions, with both sides issuing stark warnings.
Tehran has threatened to instantly retaliate against any US military strike, including against bases and aircraft carriers, and Iranian officials have maintained that their missile and defence capabilities will not be negotiable in any diplomatic talks.
The president has repeatedly pressed Iran on its nuclear programme, insisting that time was “running out” for Tehran to reach an agreement with Washington.
The deployment of a significant US naval “armada” near Iranian waters is widely seen as a pressure tactic aimed at nudging Tehran toward diplomatic engagement rather than confrontation.
As both capitals continue to exchange tough rhetoric, United Nations Secretary‑General António Guterres has called for renewed nuclear negotiations to prevent a crisis with “devastating consequences” for the region.
The Gulf remains on edge, with regional allies concerned that military action could spark widespread instability and economic turmoil, especially given Iran’s strategic position near key oil routes.
Iran’s leadership has faced its own domestic challenges, with massive protests over economic grievances erupting late last year.
Tehran blames external actors for exacerbating unrest, while rights groups report thousands of deaths linked to the crackdown.
Iranian officials deny foreign interference but have openly warned that any military confrontation would be met with decisive and immediate response.
While Trump has not ruled out military options if negotiations collapse, his latest comments signal a preference for diplomacy, even as both sides appear prepared for broader confrontation if talks fail.
Regional powers, including Turkey, have urged restraint and offered to mediate, highlighting international concerns about escalation.
The US president’s remarks in Paris reflect a complex balancing act: displaying military readiness to deter potential threats while publicly advocating for negotiation and crisis avoidance in a volatile Middle East.
