Donald Trump signals potential new military strikes against Iran

United States President Donald Trump has hinted at possible further military action against Iran, saying the US has knocked the hell out of the country. According to Al Jazeera, Iran reported that seven oil tankers sustained damage in the Strait of Hormuz in a single day, marking the highest daily count recorded since the conflict began. [1]

Speaking at a rally in South Carolina, Donald Trump stated that Washington could end the war now but wants to ensure the final outcome lasts for a long time, Middle East Eye reported. Donald Trump added that the US has defeated Iran militarily and financially, emphasizing that Tehran will never obtain a nuclear weapon. [2]

Middle East Eye and the Hindustan Times both report that Donald Trump told reporters the US is not negotiating with Iran. Donald Trump added that something will happen fairly soon and noted that most people expect further developments after the election. [3][4]

Iran operates as a theocratic republic where the Supreme Leader holds ultimate authority over major state policies. Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed as the third Supreme Leader of the nation following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during US and Israeli airstrikes in February 2026. [11]