Trump threatens Iran as hostilities resume
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The gist
Trump vows to 'hit Iran hard' after Tehran targeted US bases in Jordan. The US-Iran war enters a new phase as sanctions fail to force a deal.
Background
The US and Iran have been in conflict since February 28, 2026, when the US and Israel launched a war against Iran. The conflict has involved military strikes, naval attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, and economic sanctions. Recently, the US has escalated military action, striking Iran's Larak Island, and Iran has retaliated by targeting US bases in Jordan. The war has reached its six-month mark with no end in sight, and the US is increasingly frustrated with the slow progress of sanctions.
How it unfolded
- Feb 28, 2026The US and Israel launch a war against Iran, marking the start of the conflict.
- Aug 24, 2026Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announces new sanctions against Iran, calling it an 'economic D-Day'.
- Aug 25, 2026A ship is struck in the Strait of Hormuz hours after the sanctions announcement, highlighting ongoing hostilities.
- Aug 27, 2026Iran's state broadcaster airs a video appearing to threaten Barron Trump, the president's son.
- Aug 28, 2026Trump says Iran is in 'deep trouble' as the Treasury launches Operation Economic Outcast.
- Aug 31, 2026US strikes Iran's Larak Island; Iran retaliates by targeting US bases in Jordan. Trump vows a response, saying 'There will be a response.'
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Trump says the US will 'hit Iran hard' and that all but one missile from Iran were intercepted.
- Analysts
- Experts say Trump's threat to blow up Kharg Island is likely rhetorical and unlikely to be carried out.
- Iran
- Iran rejects the US account of the missile intercepts, calling it a 'fabrication' and a 'fantasy.'
- Israel
- Israel expects the US-Iran clash to remain limited unless either side suffers major damage.
Still unverified
The video aired by Iran's state broadcaster appearing to threaten Barron Trump is unverified; Iran's top security official dismissed it as a lie.