US President Donald Trump has left the world guessing about potential military action against Iran, refusing to reveal his plans while hinting at significant deployments. During a Saturday press conference, Trump responded to questions about Iran with characteristic ambiguity, stating he “certainly can’t tell you that” when asked if a final decision had been made. However, he confirmed that “really big powerful ships” are heading toward the region, escalating concerns about a potential military confrontation in the Middle East.
The remarks come as tensions between Washington and Tehran reach a critical juncture, primarily focused on Iran’s nuclear programme. Western intelligence agencies believe Iran’s nuclear activities are aimed at developing atomic weapons, a charge Tehran has consistently denied. Trump emphasized that while military options remain on the table, his administration still hopes to achieve a diplomatic breakthrough that would prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
Trump’s recent focus on Iran’s nuclear ambitions marks a shift from his earlier threats of military action in response to anti-government protests that swept through Iran in late December and early January. Those demonstrations, which peaked on January 8 and 9, resulted in what Iranian authorities claim were over 3,000 deaths, though they maintain most casualties were security forces or bystanders killed by “rioters.” The president had warned of severe consequences if protesters were harmed, but his messaging has since pivoted to the nuclear issue.
The president also addressed comments from Saudi Arabia’s Defence Minister, who reportedly suggested that any US hesitation on military strikes would embolden Iran. Trump offered a measured response, acknowledging divided opinions on the matter. “Some people think that and some people don’t,” he said, demonstrating his awareness of the complex geopolitical calculations at play. Despite the military posturing, Trump reiterated his preference for a negotiated settlement, stating that “a deal without nuclear weapons would be the best outcome.”
Meanwhile, Tehran has responded to the escalating rhetoric with its own show of defiance. The Iranian capital has been plastered with billboards and banners supporting the government’s position, including one massive poster depicting an American aircraft carrier being destroyed. Trump acknowledged that Iran is “seriously talking to us” about potential negotiations, though he expressed uncertainty about whether Tehran will ultimately agree to abandon its nuclear ambitions. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether diplomacy or military force shapes the next chapter in US-Iran relations.