Donald Trump has warned Iran that “time is running out” to negotiate a deal on its nuclear program following the steady build-up of US military forces in the Gulf. The US president said a “massive Armada” was “moving quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose” towards Iran, referring to a large US naval fleet.

In response, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the country’s armed forces were ready “with their fingers on the trigger” to “immediately and powerfully respond” to any aggression by land or sea.