President Trump declared an end to diplomatic negotiations with Iran and signaled escalating military operations if Tehran does not accept new terms.
Trump made the announcement during a media appearance Wednesday, marking a significant shift in U.S. policy toward Tehran. The president indicated that military strikes would intensify in the coming days to pressure Iran into accepting a proposed agreement.
What Trump Said
Trump told Fox News correspondent Trey Yingst about impending military operations hours before American forces launched a new round of attacks on Iranian military infrastructure. The president described the operation from the White House Situation Room shortly before the strikes commenced.
“We’re killing them,” Trump said, describing Iran’s military capabilities. “They have no navy. No air force. No anti-aircraft.”
Trump claimed U.S. forces had disabled much of Iran’s radar systems, anti-aircraft defenses, and approximately 80% of its missile arsenal. He characterized the proposed agreement as potentially “the greatest deal in history” but expressed frustration over media coverage.
“And yet the fake news – just like with the election – the fake news is out there saying, ‘Wow, Iran is doing just so well,” he said.
The Military Action
American forces launched strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure following Trump’s announcement. Fox News anchor Bret Baier reported that Trump remained “cautiously optimistic” about reaching an agreement despite the military pressure campaign.
Trump wrote on Truth Social that “Iran’s Military is a complete and total mess,” signaling his assessment of Tehran’s current defensive posture.
Iran’s Response
Iran established a new mechanism called the Persian Gulf Strait Authority to oversee transit through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, according to Iranian state media. Under the system, vessels must obtain prior authorization and comply with specified transit rules.
Bret Baier noted Iran’s introduction of the new maritime authority could complicate ongoing negotiations between the two countries.