Trump Warns of Potential Iranian Strike if Deal Not Reached
President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning, stating that Iran could face a devastating assault “in one night” if it fails to secure a deal by the deadline he established for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This vital maritime passage, essential for global oil shipments, remains a focal point of the ongoing tensions. The deadline, set for 20:00 EDT (00:00 GMT) on Tuesday, marks the final window for an “acceptable” agreement that ensures unimpeded energy flow through the Gulf.
Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump emphasized his belief that Iranian leaders were engaged in “good faith” negotiations. However, he acknowledged that the outcome remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Iran has rejected ceasefire proposals and instead demanded an immediate halt to hostilities, post-war reconstruction, and the removal of sanctions.
“The entire country can be taken out in one night – and that night might be tomorrow night,” Trump stated, underscoring his readiness for decisive action. He added that Iran would be thrust back to the “Stone Ages” if the deadline passes, citing the loss of bridges and power plants as potential consequences.
Trump’s remarks came during a news conference alongside General Dan Caine, the Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman, and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. The event followed the successful retrieval of two F-15 crew members from southern Iran, a move Trump highlighted as a “heroic” achievement. He reiterated his threat of targeting Iran’s energy and transportation infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened by Tuesday.
A regional official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the talks, noted that progress in negotiations hinges on a ceasefire. The official explained that communication challenges, including a persistent blackout, have delayed responses from Iranian leaders, with replies often taking a day or more to arrive. Mediators such as Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt have been actively working to bridge the gap between the two sides.
Legal analysts have raised concerns about the legality of sustained attacks on Iranian infrastructure. A former Obama-era National Security Council legal advisor told CBS, the BBC’s US partner, that such actions could qualify as war crimes, particularly if they include threats to civilian populations or the destruction of power plants.
Trump expressed confidence that Iran was negotiating in earnest, despite earlier rejections of US demands. He also criticized key allies, including the UK, NATO, and South Korea, for not supporting the US during the conflict. “That’s a mark on NATO that will never disappear,” he said, suggesting the US could operate independently without UK backing. According to the US Central Command, over 13,000 strikes have been carried out across Iran since the war began.
