Trump warns US will hit Iran ‘very hard’ as strikes escalate

Dubai/Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that the United States will strike Iran “very hard tonight” following a new round of tit-for-tat attacks that have intensified tensions in the Gulf and undermined a fragile ceasefire.In a social media post, Trump said the United States would respond forcefully after a second consecutive day of air attacks between the two sides. He also signalled a longer-term objective of targeting Iran’s key oil infrastructure, including Kharg Island, the country’s main oil export hub.“At some point in the not too distant future, we will be taking Kharg Island, and other oil infrastructure points,” Trump said.Escalating hostilitiesThe latest developments come as U.S. and Iranian forces traded strikes across the region. The U.S. military said it carried out attacks on Iran targeting surveillance systems, communications infrastructure and air defence sites.In response, Iran launched counter-attacks on U.S. military targets, including airbases in Kuwait and Bahrain and a naval facility in Bahrain. A U.S. airbase in Jordan was also targeted for a second consecutive night, according to Iranian sources.Regional incidents were reported, including falling debris in Bahrain that caused minor injuries and property damage. Kuwait temporarily closed its airspace following the attacks.Impact on oil and marketsKharg Island, which typically handles around two million barrels of oil per day, remains central to the conflict’s strategic implications. However, oil shipments from the hub have already been suspended in recent weeks following a U.S. blockade.Oil prices rose after Trump’s comments, reflecting concerns over the potential impact on global energy markets.Strained ceasefire and ongoing talksThe escalation has weakened the ceasefire agreed earlier this year and complicated efforts to reach a settlement. The conflict, which began with large-scale strikes on Iran, has already resulted in thousands of casualties and disrupted global markets.Despite the worsening situation, indirect talks between the United States and Iran on a preliminary deal are reportedly continuing. Iranian and Western officials said negotiations have intensified, although major issues remain unresolved, including mechanisms for releasing frozen Iranian funds.Iran’s foreign ministry stated that recent U.S. actions had effectively rendered the ceasefire meaningless.Uncertain outlookWhile diplomatic efforts continue, both sides have indicated readiness to escalate further. U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said earlier that military action could accompany negotiations if necessary.The conflict highlights deep divisions and mounting risks in the region, with ongoing strikes and counter-strikes complicating efforts to achieve a lasting ceasefire.