WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has warned Iran of another round of military strikes if Tehran fails to reach a peace agreement with Washington. He also suggested that Cuba could become a target of US attention after the Iran operation, raising concerns about tensions in two regions.
Speaking at a midterm election campaign rally in Florida, Trump indicated that the United States could launch a fresh military operation against Iran if diplomatic efforts fail.
Trump hints at another ‘Operation Epic Fury’
“If Iran does not agree to negotiate peace with us, we will have to carry out another little ‘Epic Fury’ operation,” Trump said. He added that Iran should negotiate and reach an agreement, while questioning whether its leadership would make that choice.
The name ‘Operation Epic Fury’ was used for the earlier large-scale US military campaign against Iran.
Trump’s remarks come amid continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran, with concerns mounting over the possibility of renewed military action.
Trump blames Ukraine for rising oil prices
Addressing rising global crude oil prices amid the ongoing conflict, Trump argued that Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries were a major factor behind higher fuel costs.
His remarks come as uncertainty surrounding the conflict continues to raise concerns about energy markets and international supply chains.
Cuba also comes into Trump’s focus
Trump also directed his attention towards Cuba, suggesting that US warships returning from Iran could pass near the Caribbean nation.
“Our ships will be coming back from Iran and they will stop about 50 yards offshore, and they will say, ‘Thank you very much, we give up,’” he said, adding that Secretary of State Marco Rubio could then be sent in to “fix” the country.
The remarks drew a sharp response from Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez, who issued a warning on X.
Rodriguez said Cuba’s beaches were not merely beautiful but also had razor-sharp limestone formations. He warned that anyone approaching the country’s shores with intentions of domination or aggression would face a hostile reception.
The United States has maintained longstanding pressure on Cuba’s communist government, with Trump previously making statements about bringing the country under US control.
Fears over global markets and supply chains
Trump’s comments followed remarks by US Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack, who reportedly suggested that further attacks on Iran could take place over the weekend.
Iran has also warned that any provocation could trigger severe retaliatory strikes against American bases.
The escalating rhetoric between Washington and Tehran has raised concerns about a wider regional conflict, potential disruptions to global oil supplies and further instability in international supply chains.
