Iran puts army on high alert - Reuters | 7 April 2025 | Iran has placed its forces on high alert, warning neighboring countries that host American bases not to support potential U.S. strikes, Reuters reported on Sunday, citing an official familiar with the matter. The reported move follows a letter from U.S. President Donald Trump to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urging direct talks aimed at halting Tehran's nuclear program. Trump has threatened a bombing campaign if a new deal is not reached. Tehran, which denies seeking nuclear weapons, rejected the demand for direct talks. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called the proposal "meaningless" and questioned its sincerity. "If you want negotiations, then what is the point of threatening?" he said.