US President Donald Trump warned of more strikes against Iran on Thursday, warning that the strikes will be "bigger" and "more powerful" in an interview with Fox News.
"There will be more bombing tonight. It will be bigger... more powerful," Trump said as the US maintains military pressure on Iran while continuing nuclear negotiations.
Trump said that US forces have destroyed much of Iran's radar, anti-aircraft and missile capabilities.
Despite the military campaign, Trump said Tehran remains engaged in diplomacy. "They are negotiating with us to make a deal," he said.
Trump described the proposed agreement as "a very good deal" and said Iran could still choose to "wave the white flag and surrender."
He criticized the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, calling it "a road to nuclear weapon," while describing his proposal as "a road to no nuclear weapon."
"You cannot develop or purchase a nuclear weapon," Trump said, describing a provision that Iran ultimately accepted after initially opposing it.
"I would like to get a deal now," he added, indicating that Washington could increase pressure further if negotiations fail.
Asked about potential attacks on energy infrastructure, Trump said, "I'd rather not do it, because once you do that, the people suffer."
He ruled out a large-scale ground operation, saying, "I don't want to have boots on the ground," despite asserting the US could rapidly seize control if it chose to deploy forces.
Earlier Thursday, Trump said on Truth Social that the US would hit Iran "very hard tonight" and added that "we will be taking Kharg Island, and other oil infrastructure points, and assume total control of their oil and gas markets" in the future.
The White House did not immediately respond to' request for comment.
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