Trump Threatens Iran With 'Much Harder' Strikes Over Retaliation

U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed Tuesday that the United States conducted "massive and powerful" strikes against Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz. In a Truth Social post, Trump described the operation as retaliation for an Iranian attempt to lay naval mines in the strait and for the launch of eight missiles targeting a U.S. base in Jordan. He stated that all mines were removed or neutralized and the eight missiles were intercepted.

Trump issued a renewed warning to Tehran, as Iran announced it had launched missiles and drones against U.S. bases and interests in the region. "If Iran retaliates against this fully justified attack, it will be hit again, much harder and at a much higher level," he threatened. The U.S. president added that an even larger operation was "waiting" and that upon its conclusion, "very little will be left of the Islamic Republic of Iran."

According to Israel National News, the American strikes targeted sites on Qeshm Island, Chabahar, and in the Bandar Abbas region. Amid fears of escalation, the U.S. Embassy in Israel issued an alert for American citizens, warning of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions. The embassy also believes Iran and its allies might target U.S. interests or sites associated with the United States worldwide.

American citizens are advised to exercise increased vigilance, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, identify a safe space in advance, and follow local authorities' instructions.