US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran, threatening a strong retaliation after a heated exchange, where he referred to Tehran as ‘scum’ and declared an end to the ceasefire.
Trump made these comments during the NATO conference held in Turkey, targeting Iran, which was reportedly struck at least 85 times overnight in a significant US bombing campaign. The strikes hit various locations in Iran, including Qeshm island, Bandar Abbas, and Sirik, leading to injuries as reported by Iranian state media. In response, Iran claimed to have attacked a US Navy headquarters and an air base in Kuwait.
According to a British intelligence analyst, these recent attacks on Iranian targets were significantly larger and more forceful compared to previous ones, indicating a potential escalation in the conflict. Despite Trump’s aggressive stance, there are signs that he is feeling the pressure. US forces in the region launched missile attacks on Iran, particularly targeting the strategic port of Bandar Abbas, following an Iranian assault on three oil and gas tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz on the Omani side, carried out by the Iranian Islamic Republican Guard Corps.
Tehran has reportedly mandated that shipping must use the Iranian side of the Strait, asserting control over the traffic flow. Trump criticized Iran for launching drones and missiles at ships in the strait, which resulted in the retaliatory strikes. He emphasized the importance of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and expressed his frustration with Iranian officials, labeling them as ‘scum’ and ‘liars’, stating that negotiations with them are futile.
Trump shared his perspective on the peace talks with Iran, suggesting that agreements made during discussions are later denied by Iranian officials. He also mentioned granting permission for Iran to hold a funeral procession for the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, only to be met with continued hostilities from Iran.
In response to Trump’s statements, Iran has threatened to disrupt global oil trade passing through the Strait of Hormuz if the US initiates further attacks. The Fars News agency, associated with the IRGC, warned of targeting the vital interests of the US and its allies in case of renewed aggression from the enemy.
The escalating tensions between the US and Iran raise concerns about potential further military confrontations and the impact on global oil trade.