Trump: may have to hit Iran harder - or maybe not
President Trump indicated that the U.S. may need to take stronger action against Iran, depending on the outcome of ongoing negotiations. He emphasized that the U.S. will not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons and noted the significant decline of Iran's military capabilities. Trump stated that the situation could lead to either further military action or a potential deal with Iran.
- ▪Trump mentioned the possibility of hitting Iran harder if negotiations fail.
- ▪He asserted that Iran's military strength has been greatly diminished.
- ▪The President emphasized that the U.S. will not permit Iran to obtain nuclear weapons.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Trump: may have to hit Iran harder - or maybe notSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxU.S. President Donald Trump stands behind protective glass as he delivers the commencement address at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, U.S., May 20, 2026. REUTERS/Evelyn HocksteinPublished May 21, 2026, 12:44 AMUpdated May 21, 2026, 12:49 AMListenNEW LONDON, Connecticut, May 20 - President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the United States may have to attack Iran even harder but will wait and see if a deal is reached, reprising the "either/or" rhetoric he has used since announcing a ceasefire six weeks ago."We'll see what happens," Trump said during a commencement address at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. "We hit them very hard.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Straits Times — World.