US President Donald Trump has threatened to take out Iran 'in one night' if it fails to make a deal before the deadline he set for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route. Trump's deadline for an 'acceptable' deal - one that includes the free flow of energy through the Gulf - is set for 20:00 EDT (01:00 GMT) on Tuesday.
Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump mentioned that he believed 'reasonable' leaders in Iran were negotiating in 'good faith', yet the outcome remains uncertain. Iran, however, has rejected the proposals for a ceasefire, instead demanding an immediate end to hostilities and lifting of sanctions.
Trump's warning comes shortly after US forces successfully rescued two downed F-15 crew members in southern Iran. He emphasized the 'heroic' nature of the operation while reiterating that if the Strait of Hormuz isn't reopened by his deadline, the US could launch strikes on Iran's energy and transportation infrastructure.
The entire country can be taken out in one night – and that night might be tomorrow night, stated Trump, emphasizing the severe consequences Iran would face if negotiations collapse.
He also asserted that once the deadline passes, Iran would be sent back to the 'Stone Ages', losing critical infrastructure such as bridges and power plants. Despite the Iranian leadership's previous rejections, Trump expressed optimism that negotiations were ongoing.
As diplomatic channels remain tricky amidst communication challenges, other countries like Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt are stepping in to mediate. Legal experts have cautioned that attacks on civilian infrastructure could constitute a war crime, but Trump appears undeterred, believing that Iran's people desire freedom even if his intention isn't to topple their government.
Adding to the tensions, Trump criticized allies, suggesting their failure to support the US has left a permanent mark on NATO. The backdrop of continuous military actions highlights the delicate balance of power in this ongoing standoff.
Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump mentioned that he believed 'reasonable' leaders in Iran were negotiating in 'good faith', yet the outcome remains uncertain. Iran, however, has rejected the proposals for a ceasefire, instead demanding an immediate end to hostilities and lifting of sanctions.
Trump's warning comes shortly after US forces successfully rescued two downed F-15 crew members in southern Iran. He emphasized the 'heroic' nature of the operation while reiterating that if the Strait of Hormuz isn't reopened by his deadline, the US could launch strikes on Iran's energy and transportation infrastructure.
The entire country can be taken out in one night – and that night might be tomorrow night, stated Trump, emphasizing the severe consequences Iran would face if negotiations collapse.
He also asserted that once the deadline passes, Iran would be sent back to the 'Stone Ages', losing critical infrastructure such as bridges and power plants. Despite the Iranian leadership's previous rejections, Trump expressed optimism that negotiations were ongoing.
As diplomatic channels remain tricky amidst communication challenges, other countries like Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt are stepping in to mediate. Legal experts have cautioned that attacks on civilian infrastructure could constitute a war crime, but Trump appears undeterred, believing that Iran's people desire freedom even if his intention isn't to topple their government.
Adding to the tensions, Trump criticized allies, suggesting their failure to support the US has left a permanent mark on NATO. The backdrop of continuous military actions highlights the delicate balance of power in this ongoing standoff.
