Trump threatens to destroy Iran’s power plants and bridges if Tehran refuses talks

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has issued a fresh warning to Iran, saying the United States will target the country’s power plants and key bridges next week if Tehran refuses to return to negotiations.

Speaking in an interview with Fox News, Trump said Iran has no option but to negotiate with Washington, claiming that US military operations would continue until Tehran agrees to a deal.

The US president warned that if Iran does not come back to the negotiating table, American forces would launch strikes on Iran’s critical infrastructure, including power plants and major bridges, in the coming days.

“It would be better for them to make a deal, otherwise they will have nothing left,” Trump said, adding that the planned strikes are intended to pressure Iran into accepting negotiations.

Trump also revealed that US negotiators contacted Iranian officials on Tuesday, urging them to resume talks and reach an agreement.

Commenting on maritime security, Trump said that instead of imposing a proposed 20% transit fee on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the United States could pursue new trade and investment agreements with Gulf countries as an alternative.