Trump threatens to take out Iran in ‘one night’ if no deal before deadline
Trump Warns of Iran’s Destruction if Deal Not Reached by Deadline
US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning that Iran could face devastation “within a single night” if it does not reach a deal by the deadline he established for Tehran to restore access to the Strait of Hormuz. This crucial maritime passage is vital for global oil supplies. The set deadline, 20:00 Washington DC time on Tuesday (00:00 GMT Wednesday), requires an agreement that ensures unimpeded energy flow through the Gulf.
Speaking at the White House, Trump expressed confidence that “reasonable” Iranian leaders were engaging in “good faith” negotiations. However, he stressed that the outcome was still uncertain. Iran, in contrast, has declined offers for a temporary ceasefire, insisting on a lasting resolution that includes sanctions relief.
“The entire country could be devastated in a single night – and that night might be tomorrow night,” Trump stated on Monday.
Earlier in the day, Trump highlighted the successful retrieval of two F-15 fighter jet crew members from southern Iran, a move he framed as “heroic.” This event occurred days after US forces recovered the pilots, which he used to underscore the administration’s resolve. He reiterated his readiness to target Iran’s energy and transport systems if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened by Tuesday.
A regional official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of discussions, noted that progress in negotiations is unlikely without a ceasefire. The official explained that ongoing communication disruptions made it difficult to receive timely responses from Iranian leaders. “The average response time has been around a day,” they remarked.
Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt have been actively involved in mediating the talks. Trump, however, provided limited details about the administration’s future strategy, stating he has “the best plan” but is withholding specifics from the media.
“Obliterating all power plants, threatening coercive actions against the civilian population to try to bring a government to the negotiating table, those kinds of things are all flatly illegal,” said a former Obama-era legal advisor to the National Security Council.
Despite Iran’s rejection of US demands, Trump maintained optimism about the possibility of a fair agreement, citing the removal of successive Iranian leadership through US and Israeli strikes. He dismissed concerns about the legality of potential attacks, claiming the Iranian people would “be willing to suffer to have freedom.”
Trump also criticized key US allies, including the UK, NATO, and South Korea, for failing to support the country during the conflict. “That’s a mark on NATO that will never disappear,” he said, adding that the US “doesn’t need” the UK. According to the Central Command, American forces have launched over 13,000 strikes across Iran since the war began.
