WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump issued strong warnings of possible destruction if Iran fails to comply with American demands, as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to escalate.

Trump claimed that the United States had achieved its objectives against Iranian targets and reiterated that Iran must not be allowed to possess nuclear weapons. He described recent proposals from Tehran as “good but not sufficient,” stressing the importance of reaching a comprehensive agreement.

The US president also referred to a high-risk rescue operation, stating that American forces entered Iranian territory to retrieve a downed pilot despite coming under close-range fire.

Warning against delays in reaching a deal, Trump said Washington could intensify its military campaign if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened and other conditions are not met. He further cautioned that key infrastructure in Iran could be targeted.

The remarks have drawn global concern, with observers warning that such rhetoric could further aggravate the crisis.

In response, Iranian leadership rejected US pressure and reaffirmed its stance of resistance. Officials in Iran said that attacks and threats would not weaken their armed forces or resolve.

Iranian authorities condemned Trump’s statements as violations of international law, particularly when targeting civilian infrastructure such as bridges, power plants and schools.

Tehran also accused the United States and Israel of facing repeated setbacks, while maintaining that its forces remain capable and determined despite ongoing strikes.

The Iranian leadership further denounced attacks on its commanders and defended its military posture as necessary against external aggression.

The ongoing standoff continues to heighten tensions across the Middle East, highlighting the widening divide between US military pressure and Iran’s commitment to resist.