U.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday he plans to talk with Iran amid escalating tensions in the region.

The announcement comes as Washington positions additional warships near Iranian waters and Tehran stresses its focus on defense.

President Trump told reporters at the Kennedy Center, “I am planning on it, yeah,” when asked about possible discussions with Tehran. He added, “We have a lot of very big, very powerful ships sailing to Iran right now, and it would be great if we didn’t have to use them.”

U.S. officials have said Trump is reviewing options but has not yet decided whether to take military action. The president did not provide details on the timing or participants of the potential talks.

US military prepared for any action

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth confirmed that the U.S. military is ready to follow the president’s orders. “They should not pursue nuclear capabilities. We will be prepared to deliver whatever this president expects of the War Department,” Hegseth said.

Trump’s warning follows recent threats, including potential sanctions and prior military responses, after a bloody crackdown on protests in Iran and air strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities by U.S. and Israeli forces in June.

Iran emphasises defense over talks

Iranian authorities continue to stress military preparedness. Kazem Gharibabadi, a senior negotiator, said, “Tehran’s priority is currently not to negotiate with the US, but to have 200 percent readiness to defend our country.”

Iran’s army announced the addition of 1,000 new strategic drones capable of suicide, combat, reconnaissance, and cyber operations targeting land, air, and sea. Army commander Amir Hamati stated, “The agenda of the army includes maintaining and improving strategic advantages for fast combat and a decisive response to any aggression.”

Regional diplomacy underway

Amid rising tensions, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled for high-level talks in Turkiye, signaling ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation. Tehran has also emphasized strengthening ties with neighboring countries based on shared interests.

Trump’s planned engagement comes as a “US armada,” led by the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, positions itself near Iranian waters, intensifying pressure on Tehran while diplomatic channels continue.