Trump Threatens Iran With Harsh Strike, Netanyahu Discusses Strikes

U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened Iran with a "harsh strike," stating that American patience has run out and that a war would end very soon, preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He also predicted a sharp drop in energy prices once the conflict concludes. In parallel, the U.S. and Israel are closely monitoring Iran's recent ballistic missile tests, with reports indicating discussions about resuming military operations against the country. Israeli Channel 12 revealed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the possibility of resuming attacks on Iran with Trump last week. U.S. officials cited by the channel suggested Netanyahu expressed interest in carrying out strikes before elections, citing concerning Iranian nuclear activities. Meanwhile, Reuters reported that Iran is adapting its combat tactics in the Strait of Hormuz by increasing attacks on ships and expanding operations to other maritime areas. This strategy aims to maintain high oil prices and influence the U.S. midterm elections in November. According to officials cited by Reuters, Iran has begun using unarmed observers on small boats to monitor targets, including U.S. Navy vessels, after its radar systems were damaged. This is part of new tactics targeting navigation. In response, the U.S. Central Command stated that Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz, noting that the U.S. assisted its Gulf partners in transferring over 19 million barrels of crude oil through the strait on the previous day.