President Donald Trump has vowed to intensify U.S. attacks on Iran, saying the country “hasn’t even started destroying what’s left,” as global concern mounts over disruptions to energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
Nearly five weeks into the U.S.-Israeli air campaign, the conflict has caused widespread disruption in the Middle East and rattled financial markets, putting pressure on the administration to seek a resolution.
Trump, in a social media post Thursday, threatened to target bridges and electric power plants in Iran, adding that the country’s leadership “knows what has to be done, and has to be done, FAST!” He also shared video of the U.S. bombing a bridge linking Tehran and Karaj, which state media reported killed eight people and injured 95.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi rejected the attacks on civilian structures, saying they would not compel surrender. Iranian media also reported a drone strike on a Red Crescent relief warehouse in southern Bushehr province, damaging two containers.
The conflict has continued to spill into the wider Gulf region. Kuwait’s Mina al-Ahmadi refinery was hit by drones, while Saudi Arabia intercepted seven drones targeting its territory. Iranian air defenses also reportedly shot down a U.S. F-35 fighter jet over central Iran, with no immediate comment from Washington.
The escalation has drawn criticism from more than 100 U.S. international law experts, who warned that recent actions and statements by senior officials could constitute violations of international humanitarian law, including potential war crimes.
Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz — a critical passage for nearly a fifth of global oil trade — has been effectively closed by Iran. Countries reliant on the waterway have sought alternatives to ensure energy supplies. The U.N. Security Council is set to vote on a Bahraini resolution to protect shipping, though China has signaled opposition to authorizing force.
The ongoing conflict has already caused fuel shortages in Asia, disrupted global markets, and raised fears of a wider economic crisis in Europe and Africa. Humanitarian needs across the Middle East are increasing, with thousands killed and tens of thousands injured since hostilities began.
