Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated on January 30, 2026, that he has engaged in discussions with Iranian leaders amid escalating tensions linked to a U.S. naval buildup in the Middle East. The remarks, made during the premiere of a documentary about former First Lady Melania Trump, come as Iran announced live-fire military exercises scheduled for February 1–2, 2026, vowing to retaliate against perceived aggression.
Trump did not specify which Iranian officials he allegedly spoke to but emphasized, "We have a lot of very big, very powerful ships sailing to Iran right now, and it would be great if we didn't have to use them." Analysts speculate the comments reference recent U.S. naval deployments to the Persian Gulf, though the Pentagon has not publicly confirmed operational details.
Iran’s state media responded by reaffirming its military readiness, stating that "any hostile act will be met with decisive resistance." The planned drills, set to occur in the Strait of Hormuz, highlight ongoing friction over maritime security and energy transit routes critical to global markets.
Regional observers note that Trump’s unexpected claim adds complexity to an already volatile geopolitical landscape, with implications for oil prices and regional stability. Business leaders and investors are closely monitoring developments, particularly given the Strait of Hormuz’s role in facilitating nearly 20% of global oil shipments.
