Washington, D.C. – US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning on Truth Social, saying that “a whole civilisation will die” in Iran if the country fails to comply with US war demands. His remarks come as tensions escalate sharply in the Middle East following a series of US-Israeli strikes on Iranian infrastructure.
Trump Hints at Regime Change and New Opportunities
In his post, Trump celebrated what he described as “Complete and Total Regime Change” in Iran, suggesting that “different, smarter, and less radicalised minds” may now lead the country. He added, “Maybe something revolutionarily wonderful can happen, WHO KNOWS? We will find out tonight, one of the most important moments in the long and complex history of the World.”
The comments coincided with warnings from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that any violation of their “red lines” would trigger retaliation far beyond the Middle East, potentially depriving Washington and its allies of oil and gas for years.
Iran Targets Critical Infrastructure
Iranian officials reported damage to key infrastructure as part of a wave of US-Israeli airstrikes. Strikes hit a bridge near the holy city of Qom, a railway bridge in Kashan, and a major highway connecting Tabriz to Tehran via Zanjan. At least two people were killed and three injured in Kashan, according to regional security official Akbar Salehi, as reported by IRNA.
The Mizan news agency also confirmed damage to railway tracks in Karaj, outside Tehran, with rescue teams attending to injured civilians. All train services to and from Mashhad were canceled following warnings from Israel.
Regional Warning from Qatar
Qatar’s foreign ministry warned that the war is nearing a point of uncontrollable escalation after Trump set a deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. “We have been warning since 2023 that escalation left unchecked will get us into a situation where it cannot be controlled…we are very close to that point,” said spokesman Majed al-Ansari, urging all parties to find a resolution before it’s too late.
White House Defers to President
The White House reiterated that “only the President knows” his plans regarding Iran, following Trump’s deadline and warnings. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, “The Iranian regime has until 8PM Eastern Time to meet the moment and make a deal with the United States. Only the President knows where things stand and what he will do.”
Experts warn that the combination of military strikes, infrastructure damage, and high-profile warnings could dramatically impact global energy markets, regional security, and international diplomatic efforts.
