US President Donald Trump has escalated his rhetoric against Iran, warning that the country could be “taken out in one night” if no agreement is reached by Tuesday. Speaking at the White House, Trump stated that the deadline for Iran to meet US demands would not be extended and that while Tehran’s new proposal falls short of Washington’s expectations, it represents a significant step.
Trump indicated that military options remain on the table, warning that American forces are prepared to launch large-scale strikes if negotiations collapse. He suggested such an operation could be swift and decisive, potentially neutralizing Iran “in one night”.
The conflict has now entered its sixth week, straining global markets and heightening regional tensions due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil transit route. This disruption has driven fuel prices higher worldwide.
Despite the forceful tone, Trump acknowledged ongoing negotiations and suggested that Iranian representatives were engaging in discussions “in good faith”. US officials have been conducting indirect talks with Tehran through intermediaries, including Pakistan, to secure a deal under which Iran would renounce nuclear ambitions and reopen the strategic waterway.
Iran has indicated it seeks a permanent end to hostilities rather than a temporary ceasefire, complicating efforts for a swift resolution. Trump also revealed that he had already granted Iran additional time beyond an earlier deadline but made clear no further extensions were likely.
Addressing criticism over potential civilian infrastructure targeting, Trump dismissed concerns about violations of international law, stating that “having a nuclear weapon” is the real war crime. He suggested the current Iranian negotiating team appears more pragmatic than previous officials and could take control of Iran’s oil resources if it meets US conditions, though this move might not be well-received domestically.
Trump’s remarks underscore the volatility of the situation as diplomacy and military escalation continue in parallel, intensifying uncertainty over what may come next.