Lagos, Nigeria – January 30, 2026 – US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, declaring that “time is running out” for Tehran to negotiate a new nuclear deal that ensures “NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS,” amid a significant buildup of American military forces in the Middle East.
In a post on Truth Social dated January 28, 2026, Trump urged Iran to “quickly ‘Come to the Table'” and secure “a fair and equitable deal… one that is good for all parties.” He emphasized that failure to do so could lead to severe consequences, stating, “The next attack will be far worse! Don’t make that happen again,” in reference to the US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities during “Operation Midnight Hammer” in June 2025.
Trump described a “massive armada” as “moving quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose” toward the region, comparing it to a larger fleet than one previously deployed near Venezuela. He characterized the force as “ready, willing, and able to rapidly fulfill its mission, with speed and violence, if necessary.”
The Pentagon has confirmed a substantial reinforcement of US naval assets in the US Central Command area of responsibility, which covers the Middle East. This includes the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group, accompanied by multiple guided-missile destroyers. Reports indicate at least six destroyers are now in the region, along with three littoral combat ships, bringing the total to around 10 warships, including the nuclear-powered carrier. An additional destroyer, the USS Delbert D. Black, arrived in the past 48 hours to bolster the presence.
US officials have described the deployment as defensive and positioned to deter potential threats, though Trump has framed it as leverage to compel Iran back to negotiations. Preliminary discussions between Washington and Tehran on limiting nuclear enrichment and ballistic missile programs have shown no significant progress, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Trump has indicated plans to engage Iran directly, telling reporters he is “planning on it” regarding talks, while weighing military options. Sources close to the administration report that he is considering targeted precision strikes on Iranian security officials and leaders responsible for recent crackdowns on nationwide protests, which erupted in late December 2025 over economic hardship and led to thousands of deaths amid violent repression. Such strikes could aim to inspire renewed protests or pressure the regime into concessions, though Trump has not finalized any decision on military action.
Iran has responded defiantly, with its foreign minister and UN mission stating that its forces are “prepared—with their fingers on the trigger—to immediately and powerfully respond to ANY aggression.” Tehran insists its nuclear program is peaceful and has warned of a response “like never before” to any attack, while expressing openness to dialogue based on mutual respect.
The escalating rhetoric has driven up global oil prices, reflecting market concerns over potential disruptions in the Gulf. Regional allies, including some Arab states and Turkey, have urged restraint to avoid a broader conflict.
Clarion Newschannel will continue monitoring developments in this rapidly evolving situation, including any official statements from Washington, Tehran, or international mediators.
Trump Warns Iran: “Time Is Running Out” for Nuclear Deal as US Deploys Massive Naval Armada
