Trump says Iran is “seriously talking to us” as U.S. naval forces move toward the Middle East President Donald Trump said February 1, 2026, that Iran is negotiating “seriously” with the United States, as U.S. military ships deploy to the Middle East and the White House weighs potential strike options. The remarks signal heightened pressure on Tehran while keeping diplomacy publicly on the table, a key moment for regional security and global energy markets.

Trump says Iran is “seriously talking to us” as U.S. naval forces move toward the Middle East
President Donald Trump said February 1, 2026, that Iran is negotiating “seriously” with the United States, as U.S. military ships deploy to the Middle East and the White House weighs potential strike options. The remarks signal heightened pressure on Tehran while keeping diplomacy publicly on the table, a key moment for regional security and global energy markets.

Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump declined to confirm whether he had decided on military action. “I certainly can’t tell you that,” he said. He added, “We do have very big, powerful ships heading in that direction. I hope they negotiate something that’s acceptable.”

The president said a negotiated outcome without nuclear weapons remains his preferred path, while acknowledging uncertainty over Iran’s response. He also said the U.S. will not share military plans with regional allies during ongoing talks.

The comments come as protests and a violent crackdown continue inside Iran, and as U.S. naval activity in the region increases. Trump compared the current deployment to previous large-scale force movements, underscoring its scale without detailing timelines or objectives.

Separately, Iran’s parliament speaker announced the country now considers European Union militaries terrorist groups after the EU designated Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as a terror organization. The move drew international criticism, while U.S. officials emphasized deterrence and diplomacy, and analysts noted mixed reactions from allies and markets.