Trump threatens Iran with military action if no deal reached

US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Iran, stating that the country could be taken out "in one night" if it does not reach an acceptable deal before his set deadline. This ultimatum, which includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy route, is scheduled for 20:00 EDT (01:00 GMT) on Tuesday. At a White House news conference, Trump expressed optimism that Iranian leaders were negotiating in "good faith," despite Iran's rejection of US proposals for a ceasefire and calls for an immediate end to hostilities.

Trump's comments came shortly after US forces successfully recovered two crew members from a downed F-15 fighter jet in southern Iran. He reiterated that if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened by the deadline, the US could launch attacks on Iran's energy and transportation infrastructure. "The entire country can be taken out in one night – and that night might be tomorrow night," Trump stated. He added that once the deadline passes, Iran would be sent back to the "Stone Ages," with no bridges or power plants.

Despite the escalating tensions, a regional official familiar with the negotiations indicated that meaningful progress is unlikely without a ceasefire. The official noted that communication with Iranian officials has been hampered by a blackout, complicating the negotiation process. Meanwhile, Trump criticized key US allies, including the UK and NATO, for their lack of support during the conflict, stating that it would leave a lasting mark on NATO.

Legal experts have raised concerns that sustained assaults on Iranian infrastructure could constitute war crimes, a possibility Trump dismissed, asserting that the Iranian population would be willing to suffer for freedom. American forces have conducted over 13,000 strikes across Iran since the conflict began.

What to watch: The outcome of negotiations with Iran as the deadline approaches.