Trump Threatens Iran With Further Destruction as US Tightens Economic Pressure

US President Donald Trump has warned that Iran could face further destruction as Washington maintains pressure on Tehran through economic sanctions, restrictions on oil revenues and threats against countries and businesses sustaining its economy.

Trump issued the warning on Thursday while speaking to reporters at the White House, saying the United States might have to “destroy the rest” of Iran if necessary.

The president also said Iran could require about 25 years to rebuild following the US-Israeli military campaign that began in February.

His remarks came against the backdrop of Washington’s broader economic pressure campaign targeting Iran’s financial and commercial networks.

In August, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced expanded sanctions against 60 individuals, entities and vessels accused of supporting Iran’s economy. He also warned countries doing business with Tehran that they could risk losing access to the US dollar-based financial system.

The sanctions strategy targets revenue channels linked to oil exports, shipping, aviation, digital assets, technology and gold.

Washington has particularly focused on networks accused of helping Iran evade restrictions and generate revenue from oil sales.

The measures have also raised concerns over relations with China, a major buyer of Iranian oil, as wider sanctions enforcement could create tensions between Washington and Beijing.

However, the Trump administration has indicated that sanctions relief could form part of a negotiated settlement if Iran makes concrete progress on its nuclear programme.

The latest warning therefore places renewed attention on the combination of economic restrictions, diplomatic negotiations and military pressure shaping Washington’s approach to Tehran.

Iran has yet to secure an agreement with the United States on the outstanding nuclear and regional security issues.