By Taiwo Scholarstica
US President Donald Trump has said Iran will face consequences for taking too long to negotiate a deal over the Middle East conflict.
Trump made the statement on Wednesday in a post on his Truth Social platform. He claimed that the Iranian military had been “completely defeated” and said Iran missed the chance to reach a deal that could have benefited the country.
“The Bully of the Middle East is DEAD!!! They’ve taken too long to negotiate a deal that would have been great for them, now they will have to pay the price!!!” Trump wrote.
His comments came as tensions continued between the United States and Iran despite a ceasefire that began in April. The ceasefire has come under pressure following recent military actions by both countries.
On Tuesday, Trump had told reporters that talks aimed at ending the conflict were close to completion and could be concluded within a few days. However, his latest remarks suggested a tougher position toward Iran.
Also on Tuesday, the US military said it carried out strikes against Iranian targets after an American helicopter was shot down on Monday. Iranian media reported explosions along the country’s southern coast following the attacks.
The US Central Command later confirmed that American Air Force and Navy forces targeted command and control facilities, as well as defence and surveillance stations.
In response, Iran said it launched attacks on American military bases in Jordan and Bahrain on Wednesday.
The latest exchange of attacks has raised concerns about further escalation in the region, even as efforts to achieve a lasting peace agreement continue.