President Donald Trump escalated tensions with Iran on Thursday, declaring that the United States would launch a 'very hard' military strike against the country tonight and take 'total control' of Iran's oil industry. The threat came after a second consecutive night of cross-border attacks between the two nations, following Trump's expressed frustration with Tehran's negotiating stance in talks aimed at ending the conflict and reopening the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking from the White House, Trump stated, 'We will hit Iran very hard tonight, and we will take total control of their oil industry. They have had their chance to negotiate, but they have chosen aggression.' The president did not provide specific details on the planned military action but emphasized that the U.S.
would not tolerate further provocations.
The latest escalation follows a series of exchanges that have raised fears of a broader war in the Middle East. On Wednesday night, Iranian forces reportedly targeted U.S.
naval vessels in the Persian Gulf, prompting a retaliatory strike by American forces. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, has been effectively closed since the conflict began, disrupting energy markets worldwide.
International leaders have called for restraint, with the United Nations urging both sides to return to diplomatic negotiations. However, Trump's latest remarks suggest a hardening of the U.S.
position, as he accused Iran of 'playing games' during the talks. 'We are done with the delays and the excuses,' he added.
The president's announcement has sent shockwaves through global financial markets, with oil prices surging by more than 8% in after-hours trading. Analysts warn that a full-scale U.S.
takeover of Iran's oil infrastructure could lead to a prolonged conflict, destabilizing the region further and causing severe economic repercussions.
As of Thursday evening, there was no immediate response from Iranian officials, but state media condemned Trump's threats as 'reckless and illegal.' The situation remains fluid, with the U.S. military on high alert and diplomatic channels reportedly still open despite the heightened rhetoric.