We’re Gonna Hit ‘Em Hard Tonight,’ Trump Says About Further Air Strikes on Iran
Trump’s Escalation Threat
Poinews.com – On Wednesday, Donald Trump, the U.S. president, issued a warning regarding imminent heavy strikes against Iran. This came after Washington terminated a ceasefire with Tehran at a NATO summit in Ankara. During discussions with Ukraine’s leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trump emphasized the need for a strong response, stating that Iran consistently breaches the agreement.
“We’re gonna hit ’em hard tonight,” he said. “They violate the agreement every day.”
Trump also hinted at targeting Iran’s civilian infrastructure and potentially seizing Kharg Island, a strategic location with significant oil facilities. “Maybe we’ll take over Kharg Island. We may take over Kharg Island. There’s not a thing they could do about it,” he added.
Iranian Counterstatements
Iran’s military leadership swiftly responded, asserting that its forces are resilient and prepared to retaliate. Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari, the chief of staff, stated: “Iran’s armed forces, standing alongside the people, are so strong and steadfast that the enemy knows any attempt to land troops on Iran’s coastlines would mean entering a living hell from which there would be no escape.”
“Our response is clear: ‘If you dare, come,’” Sayyari said. “The people of Iran should be assured that, with their support, Iran’s armed forces remain standing. Our borders are secure, and we will not allow the enemy to inflict any kind of damage on our borders.”
Meanwhile, the Iranian parliament’s National Security Commission spokesperson, Ebrahim Rezaei, declared the country undeterred by U.S. threats. “We are prepared to confront any evil,” he said. The IRGC also confirmed it had struck 85 locations at key U.S. military facilities in the region.
Regional Reactions and Context
The U.S. launched overnight strikes, hitting over 80 targets, as reported by CENTCOM. These attacks were in retaliation for Tehran’s assaults on three vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The military statement noted that forces targeted Iranian defense systems, command centers, coastal radars, and more than 60 Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps boats.
“US forces struck Iranian defence systems, command and control networks, coastal radar sites, anti-ship missile capabilities, and more than 60 Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps small boats in and near the strait,” the statement read.
NATO’s chief, Mark Rutte, praised the strikes as “absolutely necessary” following Iran’s violation of the ceasefire. However, Iran warned that it would retaliate with “whatever measures it deems necessary,” risking the collapse of the framework deal that had paused hostilities. Bahrain’s missile alert sirens were activated after the U.S. attack, while Kuwait’s military confirmed its air defenses were engaged against hostile projectiles.
Escalating Tensions
Trump insisted the ceasefire was over, criticizing Iran’s conduct. “As far as I am concerned, it’s over,” he said. “I don’t want to deal with them any more, they’re scum.” He further described Iran as “sick people” led by “vicious, violent” leaders, suggesting they would use nuclear weapons if given the chance.
“They’re scum, they’re sick people, they’re led by sick people, and they’re vicious, violent people. And if they had a nuclear weapon, they’d use it,” he said.
The president also mentioned plans to consult with negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, but stressed that Tehran must take the initiative to resume talks. “As far as I’m concerned, it’s just a waste of time dealing with them. They’re liars,” he claimed, highlighting his frustration with Iran’s alleged misrepresentation of the June 17 agreement.
