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 naval exercises, which included missiles, warships and helicopters, are testing the Iran Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IRGC) “ operational readiness ” and plans for reciprocal action in case of “potential security and military threats”.

Repairs at key missile sites began soon after they were hit by Israeli and U.S. strikes last year, but work at Iran’s nuclear facilities has been slower.

The notion that Iran only has these various ballistic missiles for defense or maintaining deterrence is contradicted by many of its actions since 2015.

DUBAI, Feb 11 (Reuters) - Iran's missile capabilities are its red line and are not a subject to be negotiated, an adviser to Iran's supreme leader said on Wednesday, as Tehran and Washington eye a new round of talks to avert conflict.

US warns Iran to reach a deal or face strikes as Tehran and Moscow announce joint naval exercises in the Sea of Oman.

President Trump is focused on Iran’s nuclear program, but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sees a more immediate threat from Tehran’s rapid rebuilding of its ability to launch missiles at Israel.

The Trump administration is rapidly approaching a potential military confrontation with Iran that could erupt sooner, and on a larger scale, than many Americans currently expect, sources familiar with the matter told Axios.

President Trump says he is still pushing for a deal, giving Tehran roughly 10 to 15 days to reach an agreement even as the Pentagon prepares for the possibility of sustained strikes. NBC News’ Garrett Haake reports.