US President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will strike Iran again, following retaliatory attacks between the two nations. On Wednesday, Trump stated, 'We struck them hard yesterday and we are going to strike them hard again today.' He also called for Iran to sign a treaty. In response, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian vowed that Iran would stand firm against any pressure or threats.
The tensions escalated after a US military helicopter crashed in the Strait of Hormuz. In response, US forces launched airstrikes on various Iranian targets. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on US bases in Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
Despite the escalating tensions, diplomatic efforts continue to bring Washington and Tehran back to the negotiating table. A Qatari delegation visited Tehran on Wednesday to discuss reducing remaining differences with the Iranians. A US official believes the retaliatory attacks will not harm the negotiations.
Trump has threatened to target Iran's civilian infrastructure, such as power plants and bridges, if Tehran does not agree to a treaty. He reiterated this threat in a Fox News interview, stating he could order new attacks on Iran's power plants and bridges if they do not sign the treaty.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baghaei said Iran is re-evaluating its diplomatic contacts with Washington, emphasizing the need for a stable environment for any diplomatic process. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi warned the US that Iran's strong armed forces would respond to any attack or threat.
