Trump calls Iran strike a "love tap" as US-Iran exchanges intensify
U.S. forces and Iran engaged in their largest exchange of fire since July, with President Trump describing Iran's retaliation as a "love tap" and warning of further strikes.
U.S. and Iranian forces exchanged the most intense round of attacks since July on Wednesday, with U.S. strikes hitting Iran’s southern coast and Tehran firing at U.S. bases across the region. President Donald Trump said the Iranian response was a "love tap" and asserted that the United States could launch another attack at any time, though he added that any renewed campaign would not last long.
The Pentagon is reportedly extending the deployment of U.S. troops in the Middle East into next year, a move described by sources as giving the administration flexible options in the conflict.
Iran’s foreign ministry accused Washington of striking a wedding in Sirik, resulting in civilian casualties, and the United Nations called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
Israel’s defence minister warned that an Iranian attack on Israel would prompt strikes on Iran’s energy and civilian infrastructure.
U.S. embassies in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates issued security alerts, citing a complex environment and the risk of further escalation.
Oil markets reacted to the heightened tension, with Brent crude slipping to around $95 a barrel and U.S. West Texas Intermediate trading near $91.