Trump Approves New Strikes on Iran, Warns Situation Could Get 'Much Worse'

U.S. military forces launched additional strikes against Iran on July 9, 2026, hitting mobile military facilities near the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. Central Command stated the objective was to degrade Iran's ability to threaten freedom of navigation in the vital waterway.

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At the direction of the Commander in Chief, U.S. Central Command forces have started conducting additional strikes against Iran to further degrade their ability to threaten freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

President Donald Trump announced the strikes on his social media platform, Truth Social, framing them as retaliation for Iran's prior attack on ships. He issued a stern warning, stating, "If it happens again, it will be much worse!" Trump also shared images and videos purportedly showing destruction in Iranian cities caused by the U.S. military, though their authenticity and recency were not confirmed.

Earlier, at a NATO summit in Ankara, Trump had previewed the renewed strikes, declaring a ceasefire with Tehran over and labeling Iranian leadership as "scum" and "a little bit crazy." However, when questioned about the possibility of war reigniting, he expressed skepticism, "I don't think so," and affirmed that his administration would continue pursuing a diplomatic resolution.

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This is in retaliation for Iran's attack on ships yesterday. If it happens again, it will be much worse!

Later, en route back to Washington, Trump mentioned receiving a call from Iran indicating a desire to return to negotiations. He remained uncertain about Iran's commitment to any potential agreement. Iranian media reported that the U.S. strikes primarily targeted southern areas, including the port city of Bandar Abbas, which had been heavily hit the previous night, as well as Sirik and Bandar-e.

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I don't think so.