Trump said the United States will carry out heavy strikes on Iran tonight. He claimed Iran’s Navy, Air Force, radar systems, air defenses, and much of its offensive military capability have already been destroyed.
Trump said the US could eventually take control of Kharg Island and other key Iranian oil facilities. He described Kharg Island as a major target because it is critical to Iran’s oil exports.
In a Fox News interview, Trump said Iran is still seeking a deal but remains proud. He repeated that Iran must never be allowed to develop or obtain a nuclear weapon.
Trump said the US could strike bridges, power plants, and other infrastructure, which could disrupt water and electricity supplies. However, he said he does not currently want to take those actions.
He suggested more bombing could take place tonight and said future strikes may be larger. Trump also stressed that he does not want US troops deployed on the ground in Iran.
Trump claimed the US previously tried to provide weapons to groups opposing the Iranian government. He said some weapons were sent to Kurdish forces, but alleged they kept the weapons instead of distributing them.
Meanwhile, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that Iran would face severe economic consequences for attacks on Gulf allies. Iran has also reportedly strengthened defenses on Kharg Island with additional troops, air defense systems, portable missiles, and mines. The island handles around 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports and is one of Iran’s most important economic assets.
Update: Iran’s state backed news agency Fars reported that Iranian decision makers have expanded their list of potential targets in the region. According to the report, all interests linked to the economic holdings managed by Elon Musk across West Asia, including in Arab countries and Israel, have been added to the initial target list. The report further claimed that Iran reserves the right to target facilities connected to Musk’s businesses in the region.
Update: Trump Says US Cancels Planned Strikes on Iran After Deal Progress
President Donald Trump said he has canceled the planned US strikes and bombings against Iran after discussions were approved by Iran’s top leadership. He said all major parties involved have agreed on the final points of the proposed arrangement.
Trump added that the United States, Israel, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Turkey, Pakistan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Egypt and others are part of the discussions. He said the naval blockade will remain in place until the agreement is finalized, with details on the signing ceremony to be announced soon.
Update: Doubts Remain Over Trump’s Claim of an Iran Deal
Tasnim said President Trump has repeatedly claimed a deal with Iran was close, but no official confirmation has come from Tehran. The outlet said his latest remarks should be viewed cautiously given his past statements.
Israeli officials also told i24NEWS they were surprised by Trump’s announcement. One official said Israel is waiting for Iran’s response, adding that past experience shows Trump’s assessments are not always accurate.
