President Trump warns Iran to “make a deal” as Israeli airstrikes devastate Iranian nuclear facilities and kill top military generals.
At a Glance
- Israeli forces conducted massive airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites and military bases, with the IDF reporting over 100 targets hit using 200 fighter jets
- Trump warned that Israel’s next attacks would be “even more brutal” if Iran refuses to negotiate over its nuclear program
- Iran retaliated by launching over 100 drones toward Israel, which were intercepted by Israeli defense systems
- U.S. and Iranian officials are scheduled for nuclear talks in Oman despite the escalating military situation
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the U.S. was not involved in the strikes and urged Iran not to retaliate against American positions
Trump Issues Stark Warning to Tehran
Following Israel’s extensive strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, President Donald Trump delivered a stern message to Iran’s leadership, urging immediate negotiations before further military action occurs. The president emphasized the devastating consequences Iran faces if it continues to resist diplomatic solutions regarding its nuclear program. Trump’s warning came after Israeli forces conducted what military analysts describe as one of the most coordinated attacks on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure in recent history, targeting not only facilities but also eliminating key scientific personnel.
The President highlighted Israel’s military capabilities in his statement, emphasizing America’s role in arming its Middle Eastern ally. “The United States makes the best and most lethal military equipment anywhere in the World, BY FAR, and Israel has a lot of it, with much more to come – And they know how to use it,” Trump stated in his message to Iranian leaders. This assertion underscores the technological advantage Israel maintains in the ongoing conflict.
Israeli Military Campaign Intensifies
The Israeli Defense Forces reported striking more than 100 targets using 200 fighter jets and deploying approximately 330 munitions in the coordinated campaign. Military sources indicated the operation would continue for days. The attacks specifically targeted Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, which Israel has long considered an existential threat. The strikes reportedly killed several Iranian generals and nuclear scientists, significantly disrupting Iran’s nuclear advancement capabilities and military command structure.
The attacks have caused significant disruptions beyond military targets. European air traffic faced substantial interference with approximately 1,800 flights affected as airspace over Iran became restricted. Inside Iran, protests erupted in response to the strikes, with citizens expressing outrage over what the Iranian government has characterized as unprovoked aggression. Air raid sirens sounded in Jerusalem after a missile was launched from Yemen toward Israeli territory.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue Despite Escalation
Despite the escalating military actions, diplomatic channels remain open. The U.S. and Iran are scheduled to hold another round of nuclear talks in Muscat, Oman, though the recent strikes have complicated these negotiations. Trump revealed that Iranian negotiators contacted him following the Israeli strikes, suggesting possible openings for de-escalation. The President had previously advised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to allow diplomatic talks to proceed before launching military operations.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has promised “severe punishment” for what he termed a “crime” against his nation. Iran restricts media access to its nuclear sites, particularly for foreign journalists, making damage assessment difficult for international observers. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clearly stated that the United States was not involved in the strikes and urged Iran to refrain from retaliating against American positions in the region, attempting to prevent wider regional conflict.
Regional and Global Implications
The escalation has prompted reactions from global leaders, with many calling for restraint from both sides. Regional experts warn that the intensity of Israel’s strikes could potentially trigger a wider Middle East conflict if Iran chooses to respond beyond its initial drone attack. The Trump administration has maintained that its primary goal is preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, while Iran continues to assert its nuclear program serves civilian energy purposes only.
The Iranian drone offensive toward Israel demonstrates the regime’s capabilities despite the damage sustained. The effectiveness of Israel’s air defense systems in intercepting these drones has reinforced Trump’s message about Israeli military superiority. As tensions remain high, the international community watches closely to see whether Iran will accept Trump’s ultimatum to negotiate or prepare for what the President described as even more devastating attacks from Israel.