Trump Vows Severe Strikes on Iran, Discusses Pressure Tactics with Netanyahu

US President Donald Trump addressed his cabinet at Camp David on Friday, declaring that the US will strike Iran hard until it concedes. He criticized Iran for consistently breaking agreements, citing nuclear talks where Iran denied discussing the issue despite lengthy negotiations. Trump expressed frustration with Iran's dishonesty but acknowledged their persistence, giving them credit for not giving up. He claimed the Iranian military and air force have been largely destroyed, including their drone capabilities, and promised to eliminate the remaining military assets soon.

Trump emphasized the US goal to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, warning that possession would threaten the Middle East's existence. He blamed the Obama-era nuclear deal for enabling Iran's nuclear ambitions and suggested Israel and other regional countries might not have supported that agreement. Earlier reports from the British Telegraph revealed that during a White House meeting, Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed options to pressure Iran, including a potential land blockade. This would require the US and Israel to pressure Iran's neighbors to tighten or close border crossings to restrict trade.

Israeli assessments indicate that if there is no significant change in Iran's stance, Trump may order expanded military strikes. Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not appeared publicly since assuming his role, is believed to be alive according to recent intelligence shared by Israel and the US.