Trump vows "very hard" attack on Iran and claims future seizure of Kharg Island
Former U.S. president Donald Trump announced on his social platform that the United States would strike Iran intensely that night and later take control of the oil hub on Kharg Island, prompting Iranian officials to warn of escalating conflict and a rise in oil prices.
Donald Trump used his Truth Social account to state that the United States would hit Iran "very hard tonight" and that, in the near future, the U.S. would take Kharg Island and other oil infrastructure, aiming to control Iran's oil and gas markets. The post claimed Iran's navy, air force, radar and anti-aircraft defenses were "gone".
Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, said recent U.S. strikes had rendered the ceasefire ineffective and condemned the actions as a violation of international law. Parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that impulsive U.S. strategies could create an "endless quagmire" and destabilise regional energy markets.
The statements coincided with a brief rise in Brent crude futures, which climbed about $2 per barrel to $94.16 before easing. The U.S. military also confirmed a strike on a vessel it said was attempting to breach a blockade in the Gulf of Oman.
Kuwaiti forces reported intercepting 24 Iranian drones over two days, noting limited material damage and no casualties. Meanwhile, the United Nations Secretary-General called for a diplomatic settlement that respects Lebanon's sovereignty and a comprehensive ceasefire.
In a separate interview with Fox News, Trump said he would prefer not to target civilian infrastructure, acknowledging the humanitarian impact of such attacks.
