US President Donald Trump has warned that Iran will “have to pay the price” after accusing the country of taking too long to negotiate a deal aimed at ending the conflict in the Middle East.
Trump made the remarks in a post on his Truth Social platform on Wednesday, following renewed military exchanges between the United States and Iran.
In the post, the US president claimed that the Iranian military had been “completely defeated” and described Iran as the “Bully of the Middle East.”
He argued that Tehran had missed an opportunity to secure a favourable agreement and would now face the consequences.
Trump’s latest comments appeared to contrast with remarks he made a day earlier. On Tuesday, he told reporters that negotiations toward a lasting settlement were in their final stages and could be concluded within “two or three days.”
Tensions escalated late Tuesday after US forces carried out military strikes against targets in Iran.
According to US military officials, the operation was launched in response to the reported downing of an American helicopter on Monday.
Iranian media reported explosions along the country’s southern coastline following the strikes.
US Central Command later confirmed that the Air Force and Navy targeted command and control facilities, as well as defense and surveillance stations.
In response, Iranian authorities said their forces launched attacks on American military bases located in Jordan and Bahrain on Wednesday.
The latest exchange of strikes has raised concerns about the stability of the ceasefire that reportedly came into effect in April.
Analysts warn that continued military action by both sides could further complicate diplomatic efforts and increase tensions across the region.
The conflict has remained a major source of concern for the international community, with growing fears that further escalation could have broader implications for security and stability in the Middle East.
