Donald Trump has warned that the United States could launch sweeping attacks on Iran within hours if a deal is not reached to end the ongoing five-week conflict, setting a firm Tuesday evening deadline for compliance.
Speaking from the White House, Trump said Iran must abandon nuclear ambitions and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, cautioning that failure to act could result in devastating strikes targeting key infrastructure, including power plants and bridges. He added that while he hopes to avoid such action, plans are in place for rapid and extensive destruction if necessary.
The comments come amid escalating tensions, with U.S. officials indicating that recent military operations have intensified and could expand further. Trump also dismissed concerns about potential violations of international law, arguing that preventing nuclear capability is the priority.
He described a recent high-risk U.S. mission to rescue a downed American airman inside Iran as a demonstration of military strength, noting the operation involved hundreds of personnel and concluded without casualties.