Ankara, Turkey (July 8, 2026) — US President Donald Trump delivered a strong warning to Iran on Wednesday, stating that American forces are prepared to launch fresh strikes against the country later in the day.
Speaking during a NATO Summit appearance in Ankara, Turkey, Trump said the United States had already conducted heavy attacks on Iranian targets the previous night and indicated more were coming.
“We hit them very hard last night. Very, very hard. We’ll probably hit them hard again tonight. I’ll give them a little warning. We’re going to hit them hard tonight,” Trump declared.
The US President accused Iran of “behaving very badly,” specifically citing drone and missile attacks on ships in the region. He described the Iranian leadership as “cuckoo” and said the country had acted as the “bully of the Middle East” for 47 years.
Trump stressed that the central goal of US actions is to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. “They can’t have a nuclear weapon. That’s what I’m there for,” he added.
Escalation Following US Strikes
The warning comes shortly after the US launched significant military strikes on Iranian facilities in the port cities of Bandar Abbas and Sirik, and on Qeshm Island. These operations were a direct response to Iranian attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
Washington has also revoked a licence that allowed the sale of Iranian oil, further increasing pressure on Tehran.
In retaliation, Iran carried out strikes on targets in Bahrain and Kuwait, heightening concerns that the conflict could spiral into a broader regional war.
Ceasefire Deal Declared Over
Earlier on Wednesday, Trump announced that an interim memorandum of understanding (MoU) intended to pause the fighting was “over,” describing continued diplomatic efforts as potentially “a waste of time.” However, he indicated that talks between the two sides could still proceed.
Trump also mentioned the possibility of targeting additional Iranian boats and infrastructure, including electricity and water facilities, but clarified he did not want to take such steps. He added that the US naval blockade in the area applies specifically to Iran.
The developments mark a sharp rise in tensions between the US and Iran, with the risk of further escalation looming over the strategically vital Gulf region.
This story is developing.