Overview
- Trump said Iran "wants to make a deal" and that additional U.S. ships are en route, adding he hopes force will not be needed and offering no firm deadline.
- The U.S. has concentrated roughly ten warships led by the USS Abraham Lincoln, with reported plans to position THAAD missile-defense systems.
- Washington announced fresh sanctions on Iran’s interior minister, several IRGC commanders and two financial-service firms, building on Europe’s new measures.
- The EU formally listed the IRGC as a terrorist organization, and Iran responded by labeling European armies "terrorists" and insisting its missiles are not up for negotiation.
- Iran’s foreign minister voiced readiness for "equitable" talks; Turkey offered to facilitate, Russia pressed for diplomacy, and U.S. officials continue weighing military options without a final decision.