US President Donald Trump indicated on Friday that he would give diplomats additional time to try to secure a deal, according to the Associated Press, saying he was “not happy” with the pace of negotiations but stopping short of immediately ordering military action. However, he later stated that the US objective is to defend the American people by eliminating what he described as imminent threats from the Iranian regime, adding that the United States had begun major combat operations in Iran shortly before his remarks.
Trump issues direct warning to Iran’s public and military
US President Donald Trump delivered separate messages to the people of Iran and the country’s armed forces amid escalating tensions. Addressing Iranian civilians, he said “the hour of your freedom is at hand,” urging them to remain sheltered and not leave their homes as bombardment intensifies.
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In a stark warning to Iran’s military, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, Trump said bombs would be “dropping everywhere” overnight and called on them to lay down their arms. He said those who surrender would be treated fairly and granted immunity, while those who resist would face “certain death.” Trump also alleged that Iran had continued developing its nuclear weapons programme and was working on missiles capable of reaching the United States.
