Trump vows fresh Iran strikes

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday pledged additional military strikes against Iran, accusing Tehran of delaying negotiations and acting in bad faith. Speaking at the White House, Trump said American forces had already carried out major attacks and would launch more operations in response to recent developments. He argued that Iran had repeatedly stalled efforts to reach a diplomatic agreement despite progress in talks.

The latest escalation follows the reported downing of a US Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. According to US officials, American forces responded by targeting Iranian air-defense systems, radar sites, and military infrastructure. Trump indicated that further targets could be considered but declined to provide specific details, saying Washington retained the option to strike additional facilities if necessary.

Iran responded by launching missile and drone attacks against US military installations in the region, including bases in Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain.

While US authorities reported limited damage, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian insisted that his country would resist external pressure and threats. He stressed that Iran's unity, expertise, and national capabilities would enable it to withstand continued military and economic pressure.

The US Central Command said its operations focused on command centers, surveillance facilities, and defense assets connected to Iranian activities around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

Trump also claimed that the US military had conducted a confidential mission to help secure commercial shipping routes through the waterway, ensuring the passage of large volumes of oil despite ongoing regional tensions.

As diplomatic efforts struggle to gain momentum, concerns are growing over the broader economic impact of the conflict. Rising oil prices and disruptions to shipping routes have heightened fears of prolonged instability in the Gulf region.

Although Trump maintained that the United States remains open to a negotiated settlement, his remarks reflected increasing frustration with the pace of diplomacy and signaled that further military action remains a strong possibility.