‘We Can Escalate’: Trump Signals Further US Military Action Against Iran

US President Donald Trump has indicated that Washington could take further military action against Iran, saying the United States possesses the capability to escalate the confrontation if necessary.

During a White House interaction, Trump declined to reveal what could follow the latest discussions with Tehran.

When questioned about the possibility of a major escalation, the US President again suggested that such an option remained available.

Trump said Iranian officials had sought financial compensation for destruction they attributed to American actions.

In response, the US President argued that Iran should itself face claims for compensation over what he described as decades of violence and damage.

Trump pointed to people he alleged had been killed or injured by Iranian authorities, including protesters, and said their relatives should receive damages. He did not disclose specific details about the ongoing talks or identify any planned military operation.

Trump separately claimed that the US Navy has complete authority over traffic passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Although he described the waterway as open, Trump said the US would control ships passing through it and prevent them from entering Iran. He further stated that American forces had conducted mine-clearing operations across the strait and maintained complete control over the strategically important passage.

Any serious disruption could push up oil prices, increase shipping expenses and create wider pressure on global markets.

Trump claimed that Iran was facing severe financial difficulties, including problems with funding its military and extremely high inflation. He also accused Tehran of contributing to instability across the Middle East for decades and argued that Iran was now facing the consequences of its actions.

Trump commented briefly on Israel, saying he had shared his response on Truth Social after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a proposed agreement involving Hamas.