Trump threatens fresh strike on Iran, says US will hit ‘Very Hard Tonight’; warns of taking control of key oil facilities
Donald Trump warned that US could hit Iran "very hard tonight" and signalled possible action against key oil facilities, even as Washington and Tehran continue diplomatic negotiations
PTC Web Desk: US President Donald Trump on Thursday sharply escalated tensions with Iran, warning that the United States could launch fresh military action against the country and signalling a tougher stance on Tehran's strategic energy infrastructure.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the US would strike Iran "very hard tonight," claiming that much of the country's military capability had already been significantly degraded. He asserted that Iran's naval, air and air defence systems had suffered major setbacks during the ongoing conflict.
The US President also suggested that Washington could eventually move to take control of key Iranian oil facilities, including Kharg Island, one of the country's most important oil export hubs. The remarks marked one of Trump's strongest statements since the latest phase of the conflict began.
Despite the aggressive rhetoric, Trump indicated that communication channels between Washington and Tehran remain open. He said both sides continue to exchange messages while efforts are underway to reach a preliminary understanding that could help reduce hostilities.
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, discussions have made some progress, but several contentious issues remain unresolved. Among the most significant hurdles is Iran's demand for access to billions of dollars in funds frozen abroad.
Iran is reportedly seeking the release of between $6 billion and $12 billion in overseas assets. The United States, however, is said to favour a phased approach that would restrict the use of the funds primarily to humanitarian purposes.
Sources said both sides have reached a broad framework on certain issues, although differences continue to persist over the timing and conditions of any financial relief.
An Iranian source involved in the discussions described the current situation as increasingly difficult to sustain, suggesting that military escalation alone is unlikely to achieve a lasting resolution.
For Tehran, gaining access to frozen assets and securing an end to the conflict appears to be a more immediate priority than negotiating a comprehensive agreement, according to people familiar with the ongoing diplomatic efforts.