Trump Links Iran to FlyDubai Pilot, Threatens Severe Retaliation

President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that information suggests a potential link between Iran and the co-pilot of a FlyDubai flight that was en route to Israel. When asked if he had been briefed on such a connection, Trump responded, "We are working on that right now. They are cooperating with us very transparently. I would say based on what I am hearing, the answer is yes. But we are still checking it." He did not rule out the possibility that the co-pilot was placed on the plane by Iran's Revolutionary Guard or had become radicalized, stating, "It could be, yes." Trump warned that if Iran is found to be involved, "They will be hit very hard, don't worry. Just ask them. They know what happened."

Trump also sharply criticized Iran's domestic situation, citing "301% inflation" and a worthless currency, stating, "Their economy is finished. They have no army. They have no air defense systems." He asserted that the U.S. controls the Strait of Hormuz and that more oil has passed through it recently than ever before, praising the U.S. Navy and military. The President issued an ultimatum to Tehran: "Now I have to make a decision. Either they will sign a very fair deal, or they will no longer exist."

Regarding Iran's proxies in the Middle East, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, Trump stated, "What happens to Iran, will happen to its proxies." He predicted that oil prices would soon decrease once the "Iran issue is over," adding that Iran is "more or less finished now." Responding to a question about whether the conflict with Iran could harm Republicans in the upcoming midterm elections, Trump suggested it might help, as Iran would not obtain nuclear weapons, a prospect he believes is universally opposed.