Iran confronts escalating U.S. warnings and threat of massive strikes

U.S. officials warned that Iran is not ready to negotiate and faces increasing costs for its actions. At the ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting in Manila, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iran’s industrial infrastructure has been devastated, its economy is in ruin, and the country continues to fund militant groups. He warned that the “price” Iran pays will rise each night.

Former President Donald Trump, speaking to Axios, said he is close to deciding on a “massive” military operation against Iran, larger than previous strikes, and that Israel could join within minutes. Trump stressed that Iran has not yet suffered enough pain and that U.S. forces are prepared for a new offensive.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that continued U.S. attacks would force Washington to pay a higher price for any settlement. Iranian state media reported attacks on U.S. bases in Kuwait, with claims of drone and rocket strikes, and noted related tensions involving Saudi Arabia and Jordan in the Gulf region.

The statements underline a sharp escalation in U.S.–Iran tensions, with potential regional ramifications and the prospect of broader military engagement.