Trump Signals Strong US Strikes on Iran, Declines to Confirm Israeli Involvement

US President Donald Trump issued a series of stern warnings against Iran during a radio interview on Monday evening, stating that the United States would "hit Iran very hard" as early as that night, with potential continued strikes the following day. When asked about Israeli involvement in these attacks, Trump declined to comment, saying he was "not interested in talking about it." He also described a recent memorandum of understanding offered to Iran as a test that Tehran failed to meet.

Trump addressed his relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying they get along well despite occasional disagreements, which he makes sure to clarify. He praised Netanyahu's leadership, stating, "He is doing a great job. Without us, there would be no Israel." Regarding other Israeli election candidates, Trump said he did not know them.

The president also focused on Iran's most fortified nuclear facility at Fordow, near the town of Pakez, warning that "all eyes are on it" and suggesting it could be a target for a "big, fat, beautiful attack right on the doorstep." Political analyst Tamir Morag noted that destroying Fordow would require either a tactical nuclear bomb or a ground operation, as conventional bunker-buster bombs would not penetrate deeply enough.

Earlier on Monday, Trump officially notified congressional leaders of renewed military actions against Iran, referencing defensive strikes carried out on July 7. This notification reignited debates in the US over presidential authority to conduct military operations without congressional approval. Concurrently, Trump declared the Strait of Hormuz open and announced a 20% fee on all cargo passing through it for security costs, prompting Iran to reject the demand and assert its role as the "guardian of the Strait."

Meanwhile, US naval forces continue escorting commercial vessels through the Strait and conducting strikes against Iranian Revolutionary Guard targets to limit Tehran's ability to threaten maritime freedom in the region.