President Donald Trump announced plans to escalate military strikes against Iran, pledging severe actions until Iran engages in negotiations. He expressed frustration over Iran’s repeated breach of agreements.
In an interview with Fox News’ chief foreign correspondent Trey Yingst, Trump stated, “We’re going to hit them very hard tonight. We’re going to hit them hard tomorrow night. We’re gonna hit them really hard the night after.” He also noted ongoing U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) operations near the Strait of Hormuz would persist until he deems sufficient action is taken.
We’re gonna knock out all their power plants. We’re going to knock out all their bridges unless they get to the table and negotiate.
Trump shared plans to target Iran’s infrastructure if negotiations do not commence. Recent operations included strikes near critical facilities, as highlighted by a video released on July 13, 2026, where a U.S. drone targeted a submarine and ship maintenance facility in Bandar Abbas, Iran.
Trump retracted plans for a toll on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, opting for investment agreements with Middle Eastern nations instead. He stated, “I was going to charge a fee, but instead they’d rather spend a lot of money in the United States, which frankly is better because I don’t like the idea of a fee.”
The U.S. reinstated a naval blockade on Iranian ports, and Trump noted significant degradation of Iran’s military capacity. Although Iran retains some ability to fight, Trump compared the situation to a boxer with diminished strength. He acknowledged discussions between U.S. representatives and Iranian negotiators but criticized Iran’s failure to uphold agreements.
Trump’s stance remains firm: “You better make a deal, you’re not going to have anybody left. We’re being very careful with the civilian population, as you know, but I said, you better make a deal you’re going to not have anything left.”
Despite reduced shipping traffic, Trump claims U.S. military objectives in securing the Strait of Hormuz have been met. He downplayed concerns about renewed activity at an Iranian nuclear facility previously hit by U.S. strikes, promising swift and substantial military response when necessary.
Trump insisted that Iranian military capabilities have been substantially weakened, though he acknowledged they could still retaliate effectively. His administration continues to monitor and address the challenges posed by Iran.

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