Trump Warns Iran ‘Time Running Out’ for Nuclear Talks; Tehran Promises Fierce Retaliation

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and US President, Donald Trump

Trump Warns Iran ‘Time Running Out’ for Nuclear Talks; Tehran Promises Fierce Retaliation

Washington, D.C. & Tehran — January 28, 2026: Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated sharply after President Donald Trump issued a warning that “time is running out” for Tehran to return to nuclear negotiations. In response, Iranian officials declared that they are ready to defend their sovereignty and respond “like never before” if threatened.

The warning from Trump came alongside the deployment of a U.S. naval armada to the Persian Gulf, including the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, signaling that Washington is prepared to escalate military pressure if diplomatic efforts fail. Trump emphasized that Iran must come to the negotiating table over its nuclear program, warning that any continued defiance could trigger a military response unprecedented in scale.

“Time is running out for Iran to act responsibly. If they do not comply, the consequences will be far worse than any previous U.S. actions,” Trump said, referencing prior strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.

Tehran Responds: Ready for Dialogue, But Will Defend Itself

Iran’s mission to the United Nations said that while the country is “ready for dialogue based on mutual respect,” it will retaliate decisively if attacked. Iranian officials framed the warning as a response to what they described as “threats of aggression” from the United States, emphasizing Tehran’s commitment to protect its sovereignty and national interests.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi added that Iran does not negotiate under threat and warned that U.S. military posturing is unlikely to yield results.

“Iran will defend itself and respond like never before if provoked. Diplomacy under pressure is not acceptable,” he said.

Regional and Global Concerns

The escalation has alarmed countries across the Middle East and the international community. Nations including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Qatar, and Egypt have called for restraint and renewed diplomatic engagement. Analysts warn that the ongoing civil unrest in Iran, coupled with the U.S. military buildup, raises the risk of wider Middle East conflict.

Experts say Trump’s rhetoric is both a pressure tactic for nuclear negotiations and a strategic show of strength, but note that a peaceful resolution will require compromise and dialogue.