US President Donald Trump has suggested that Washington could launch further attacks on Iran soon. Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Trump said the United States had already struck Iran heavily. He added that American forces might carry out additional military action.
Trump also discussed how the conflict could affect voters during the upcoming US midterm elections. He said some voters might support his actions because he was doing what previous presidents should have done. However, he acknowledged that others might oppose the campaign because of its potential costs.
Read more: Trump rules out current Iran talks, predicts resolution soon
The president said he understood the consequences when he decided to take action against Iran. He maintained that the United States could not allow Tehran to obtain nuclear weapons. His remarks came amid continued tensions between Washington and Tehran.
Trump had previously denied that the two countries were holding negotiations. He said discussions were not taking place and suggested that developments in the conflict would emerge soon. He also claimed the United States was performing strongly against Iran in military and financial terms.
In a separate social media statement, Trump accused Iran of pushing oil prices higher ahead of the American midterm elections. He claimed that oil traffic through the Strait of Hormuz exceeded levels recorded before the conflict began in February. He also accused Iran of fabricating reports about attacks and sea mines.
Read more: Trump rules out use of nuclear weapons against Iran
The remarks followed a report by an American newspaper claiming that the United States and Israel had planned further strikes against Iran after the elections. According to the report, an unnamed US official said both countries were preparing for possible renewed military action. Their forces had reportedly increased exercises linked to potential attacks.
The newspaper report identified Iranian energy facilities, nuclear sites, and missile and drone stockpiles as possible targets. However, the supplied report did not confirm that a new attack date had been set. Trump’s latest comments nevertheless indicated that further military action remained a possibility as tensions continued.