Trump threatens strikes on Iran's energy facilities and desalination plants

US President Donald Trump on Monday, July 8, during a summit in Ankara alongside the Ukrainian president, issued threats of possible strikes on Iranian critical infrastructure. Commenting on previous US strikes against Iran, Trump stated they had already had a "huge impact", including hitting radar stations. However, he emphasized that the attacks have not yet been at the "maximum level".

Trump elaborated that the highest level would include bridges, power plants where electricity is generated, and desalination plants. "We may have to knock them out. I don't want to, but if necessary, we will strike them," the president said. He also mentioned Kharg Island, crucial for Iran's energy exports. Trump added that he is not a proponent of such actions, but Iran deserves it because they claim they want to negotiate a deal but do not.

Earlier on July 8, Trump stated that the framework agreement with Iran to cease hostilities has effectively lapsed. On the evening of July 7, the United States struck over 80 targets in Iran in response to a series of Iranian attacks on merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.