WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has once again threatened Iran, warning that the Middle East conflict should end in days, not weeks, and that if no agreement is reached, “the entire country of Iran can be destroyed, leaving very little.”
In a interview with ABC News, President Trump stated that the departure of US ground troops is not necessary, “but it is not impossible either.” He added that a deal may or may not be made tomorrow.
“The Middle East conflict should end in days, not weeks,” Trump said. “If there is no agreement, then the entire country of Iran can be destroyed, leaving very little.”
Earlier on Sunday, Trump had threatened Iran with serious consequences for not opening the Strait of Hormuz. He also used abusive language against Iran in a statement released on social media.
“If Iran does not open the Strait of Hormuz, civilian facilities will be targeted and the end will come for Iran,” Trump said. “Tuesday will be Power Plant Day and Bridge Day for Iran. If the Strait of Hormuz is not opened, life will be hell — just wait and see.”
These statements came before the expiration of the 48-hour deadline that Trump himself set for Tehran. The strategically vital Strait of Hormuz has been closed since the war began in late February.
In the same interview, the US President elaborated: “If Iran does not make a deal soon, we are considering destroying everything and seizing the oil. You will see bridges and power plants destroyed throughout Iran.”
Trump also claimed that some Iranian officials are negotiating, adding that “it is very likely that an agreement will be reached on Monday,” and that a limited amnesty has been given to Iran’s current negotiators.
No immediate response from Iranian authorities was available at the time of filing
