United States President Donald Trump has warned Iran of potential military action if Tehran fails to meet Washington’s demands on nuclear enrichment and ballistic missiles. In an interview with Israel’s Channel 12 published Tuesday, Trump said, “Either we reach a deal, or we’ll have to do something very tough.” His comments came as Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani met Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said to discuss recent US-Iran talks. The US has also warned its commercial ships to avoid Iranian waters amid a growing military buildup that includes the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, with reports suggesting a second carrier may be deployed.

Trump’s renewed threats follow his administration’s three demands: ending uranium enrichment, cutting ties with regional proxies, and limiting missile stockpiles. Since returning to office in January 2025, he has reinstated a “maximum pressure” campaign involving sanctions and military posturing. The escalation coincides with widespread anti-government protests in Iran, which were met with a violent crackdown that reportedly killed thousands. Analysts note that US military action could align with long-standing US and Israeli goals of curbing Iran’s military power, though its impact on Iran’s internal unrest remains uncertain.