President Donald Trump said Iran must quickly come to the negotiating table over its nuclear program. He emphasized that any failure could lead to a “far worse” military attack, referring to past US strikes on Iranian targets. Trump posted on Truth Social that the deal should include no nuclear weapons and be fair for all parties.

A US naval strike group, led by aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, is now in Middle East waters. Trump’s warning follows Iran’s crackdown on protests and the 12-day war with Israel in June, in which the US supported Israel.

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Iranian officials strongly rejected Trump’s threats. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said military pressure is not effective and diplomacy must happen without threats or excessive demands. Chief of Staff Habibollah Sayyari warned the US against miscalculations, saying American forces would also suffer damage.

New billboards in Tehran show Iran targeting a US aircraft carrier, signaling rising tension. Meanwhile, Iran has reached out to other regional countries like Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia to gather support and reduce escalation. Qatar and Egypt called for peaceful solutions and resuming dialogue between Washington and Tehran. Turkey also urged the US to reopen talks and avoid military action.

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The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reported the deadly toll of Iran’s protests, confirming 6,221 deaths, including 5,856 protesters, 100 minors, 214 security personnel, and 49 bystanders. Over 42,324 people have been arrested, and trials have started for those accused of protesting or attacking authorities. HRANA warned of harsher crackdowns, including executions.

Iran’s judiciary also executed a man accused of spying for Israel’s Mossad. Rights groups fear more protesters could face the death penalty as the government intensifies its crackdown.