Iran fired live missiles toward the Strait of Hormuz as nuclear talks with the United States began in Geneva, escalating tensions in the region.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that while a U.S. warship in the Gulf is dangerous, Iran possesses weapons capable of sinking it.

The negotiations, described by Iranian state media as indirect, are focused solely on Iran’s nuclear program amid increased U.S. military presence and large-scale Iranian maritime exercises.

President Donald Trump has threatened military action if Iran does not curb its nuclear activities, while Tehran has vowed to retaliate against any attack, the South China Morning Post has reported.

The talks come as Iran marks 40 days since a deadly crackdown on nationwide protests, with activists reporting thousands killed during the unrest.