As the United States continues a significant military buildup in the Middle East, Iran has taken steps to signal its readiness for war, including fortifying its nuclear sites and rebuilding missile production facilities.

The United States has carried out its largest military buildup near Iran since the 2003 Iraq war. The deployment includes two aircraft carriers, over 50 fighter jets, advanced air-defence systems and long-range bombers placed on alert.

Fox News @ Night’ panelists discuss the United States increasing its military presence in the Middle East as tension with Iran escalates.

President Donald Trump’s choice on Iran amounts to this: He can either enforce his red line — however belatedly — or do something quite politically fraught.

Iran has threatened Donald Trump with "uncontrolled consequences" if the US launches strikes. In a letter to the United Nations, Iran has called for the UN Security Council to use its authority to ensure the US "immediately ceases" threats to Iran.

The White House warned on Wednesday that Iran would be "wise" to do a deal with the United States as President Donald Trump once again hinted at military action."Iran would be very wise to make a deal with President Trump and with his administration,

Oil prices jumped Thursday to their highest level in nearly seven months and investors snapped up safe havens like gold, as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to flare.