Trump escalates rhetoric as strikes on Iran increase

US President Donald Trump warned on Truth Social that if Iran does not comply with his demand to open the Strait of Hormuz by Tuesday night, ‘A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don’t want that to happen, but it probably will.’

During the day, attacks on Iran intensified. According to Iranian media, rail and road bridges, an airport and a petrochemical plant were struck. Explosions were also reported on Kharg Island, which is key for oil exports. Some areas experienced power outages.

Iran responded by declaring that it would no longer delay attacks on infrastructure in neighbouring Gulf countries and announced further strikes on US-linked ships and industrial facilities.

Tehran also rejected a proposal for a temporary ceasefire. Negotiations on a permanent peace can only begin after the attacks stop and guarantees are provided, according to an Iranian source.

Israel urged Iranians to stay off the railways. Iranian media also reported the destruction of a synagogue in Tehran.

(reuters, bak)