Donald Trump threatens to expand attacks on Iran to include power plants and bridges if Iran refuses to open negotiation talks, while the U.S. military continues its strikes for the fourth day and maintains a blockade of Iranian ports.
On 15 July 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump told Fox News that he would expand attacks on Iran next week, targeting power plants and bridges nationwide if the Iranian government refuses to return to the negotiating table amid escalating tensions over the Strait of Hormuz dispute. Trump also said next week would be bad for Iran because the U.S. would attack all power plants and bridges if Iran refuses to negotiate.
Trump's threat came as the U.S. military launched its fourth consecutive day of attacks on Iran and reinstated a blockade of Iranian ports near the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said the latest strikes aimed to reduce Iran's ability to attack commercial vessels along this vital global shipping route.
Iranian state media reported explosions near the port city of Bandar Abbas, Qeshm Island, and other areas near the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the IRNA news agency reported that Iranian forces had sent drones to attack U.S. bases in Jordan.
Earlier, Trump canceled plans to impose a 20% tariff on goods transported through the Strait of Hormuz, citing positive discussions with Middle Eastern leaders, and shifted focus toward promoting investment and trade cooperation. However, he confirmed that the U.S. would continue to enforce the blockade of Iranian ports.
Nevertheless, threats to attack Iran's energy and public infrastructure are viewed as potentially violating international humanitarian law and possibly constituting war crimes if carried out.
Although both sides reached a ceasefire agreement on 17 June, the latest situation shows the agreement has little practical effect. Confrontations between the U.S. and Iran continue, centered on control of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil shipping routes.
Source: BBC