Tensions Rise as Trump Warns Iran Amidst US Military Buildup in Gulf
Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated as former President Donald Trump warned that "time is running out" for Iran to negotiate a deal on its nuclear program. This warning coincided with a build-up of US military forces in the Gulf. According to BBC World, Trump stated that a "massive Armada" was "moving quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose" towards Iran.
In response to the US military presence, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted that Iran's armed forces were prepared "with their fingers on the trigger" to "immediately and powerfully respond" to any aggression by land or sea, according to BBC World. Iran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes.
The internet in Iran is gradually being restored after a nearly three-week shutdown, but access remains tightly controlled, according to BBC World. The country cut off internet access on January 8th, which was widely seen as an attempt to stem the flow of information about a government crackdown on protesters. Araghchi stated that the internet was blocked in response to what he described as "terrorist operations," according to BBC World. While some internet access has returned, independent analysis suggests that much of the country remains effectively cut off from the outside world.
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