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Trump threatens more strikes as death toll in Iran rises to 18
Al Jazeera • • nation
Key Points:
- US President Donald Trump threatened further attacks on Iran, stating Washington could strike "anytime we want," following US airstrikes that killed at least 18 people and wounded over 108, including civilians at a wedding party in Kuhestak.
- Iran retaliated with attacks on US bases across the Middle East, while Iranian officials condemned the US strikes as "war crimes," highlighting civilian casualties and vowing continued resistance.
- The ongoing six-month conflict has driven oil prices up by over 30%, negatively impacted the US economy, and decreased Trump's approval ratings, with only 31% of Americans supporting the war amid concerns over rising gas prices.
- The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint, with Iran closing the waterway to most shipping and blacklisting vessels, while the US maintains it controls the strait and continues economic sanctions and blockades against Iran.
- Experts suggest Iran aims to make the conflict costly for the US politically, economically, and militarily, seeking to avoid defeat while prolonging disruption and undermining US domestic support ahead of upcoming elections.
