Trump Sets Explicit Deadlines Amid US-Israeli Conflict with Iran
President Donald Trump has issued clear deadlines, demands, and warnings during the five-week joint US-Israeli conflict involving Iran. However, these directives have rarely been as explicit as they are now.
The upcoming series of strikes against Iran is expected to be severe. Scheduled to commence at 20:00 Washington DC time (01:00 GMT), the operation aims to "decimate" every bridge and power plant within four hours.
"Very little is off-limits," Trump stated on Monday.
According to the president, Iran must reach an agreement "that's acceptable to me" to avoid this outcome. A key element of this deal should include "free traffic of oil" through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran's Rejection and US Position
As the deadline approaches, indications suggest Iran is not prepared to accept Trump's ultimatum. The Iranian government has declined a temporary ceasefire and presented its own set of demands, which a US official characterized as "maximalist."
This situation places President Trump in a challenging position. Without an agreement, he may extend the deadline for the fourth time in three weeks. However, retreating after issuing detailed threats, including expletives and severe warnings, could damage his credibility as the conflict continues.
There is a possibility that Iran and the international community might perceive that despite America's military strength and tactical expertise—demonstrated in the recent complex operation to rescue two downed airmen deep inside Iran—the US is not negotiating from a position of clear strength.
"We won," Trump asserted during his Monday afternoon press conference. "They are militarily defeated. The only thing they have is the psychology of: 'Oh, we're going to drop a couple of mines in the water'."
This "psychology"—Iran's capability to deter oil tankers from passing through the Strait of Hormuz using drones, missiles, and mines—may be a more significant asset than the US has acknowledged.
US Military Operations and Limitations
During the press conference, Trump praised the precision of American military actions, referencing last year's "Midnight Hammer" bombing raid on Iran's nuclear facilities, the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in January, and the recent rescue mission.
He and his national security team celebrated the latest operation, which involved coordinating hundreds of aircraft and elite personnel, employing misdirection and advanced technology. Despite its success, the mission was conducted to prevent what Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth described as a "potential tragedy."
Although the tragedy was averted, the rescue highlighted the ongoing risks faced by American forces in Iran. The president appears to be recognizing the limitations of American military power.
"We can bomb the hell out of them," he said. "We can knock them for a loop. But to close the Strait, all you need is one terrorist."
Potential Outcomes and Humanitarian Concerns
Another option for Trump is to carry out his threats. However, on multiple occasions Monday, he expressed reluctance to pursue this path.
Trump acknowledged that the Iranian population is enduring the US military campaign and, in some cases, welcomes the bombings of their cities. He also noted that any destroyed infrastructure would eventually require rebuilding, potentially with US involvement.
"Do I want to destroy their infrastructure? No," he said. "Right now, if we leave today, it will take them 20 years to rebuild their country."
He added that if he follows through with his bombing threats, the rebuilding effort could extend to a century.
While this scenario is less severe than the "stone age" condition Trump previously warned Iran would face, the resulting humanitarian crisis—including the regional effects of Iran's promised "crushing" retaliation—could be devastating.
Hope for Negotiation and Uncertainty
Despite the tense situation, Trump remains hopeful for a breakthrough.
"We have an active, willing participant on the other side," he said. "They would like to be able to make a deal. I can't say any more than that."
The president's lack of transparency is notable given the high stakes. He claims to have a comprehensive plan, stating, "every single thing has been thought out by all of us," but has not revealed details.
This could suggest that negotiations are more advanced behind the scenes than publicly acknowledged or might reflect a combination of bluff and optimism.
"They have till tomorrow," Trump said. "We'll see what happens. I believe they're negotiating in good faith. I guess we'll find out."
