President Donald Trump has stated that Iran wants to make a deal rather than face military action, despite Tehran's insistence that its missile and defense systems will never be up for negotiation. I can say this, they do want to make a deal, Trump told reporters at the White House on Friday when asked about a build-up of US military forces in the Gulf. He had warned Tehran on Wednesday that time was 'running out' to negotiate a deal on its nuclear program after a large US naval fleet had gathered near the country. Iran's foreign minister stated that there are no current talks planned with the US, but emphasized that Iran is open to negotiations based on 'mutual respect' and trust. The Kremlin confirmed on Friday that the head of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Ali Larijani, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss Middle Eastern and international issues. Iran maintains that its nuclear program is entirely peaceful and denies allegations from the US and its allies regarding intentions to develop nuclear weapons. Trump's recent warning regarding a nuclear deal came after he had previously promised intervention to assist those affected by a brutal crackdown on protests in Iran. The US insists that for negotiations to commence, Iran must halt its nuclear activities and stop violence against protesters. Reports indicate that over 6,300 people have died in protests since late December, with estimates suggesting this number may exceed 25,000.