Trump Threatens to ‘Wipe Iran Out’ Unless They ‘Behave’: Report

**Trump Considers Extreme Options in Ongoing Iran War**

In a recent interview with Fox News, former President Donald Trump expressed his contemplation of extreme measures against Iran as the conflict he initially predicted would conclude swiftly now approaches its seventh month. Speaking to Trey Yingst, the network’s chief foreign correspondent, Trump indicated his choices included a drastic option to “wipe Iran out,” reflecting the escalation of tensions in the region.

Interviewed from Tel Aviv, Trump, 80, conveyed a sense of urgency, stating he is in a “deciding mode” regarding the future of US-Iran relations. He articulated three potential paths: a military strike, allowing Iran to falter economically, or pursuing diplomatic negotiations. He added provocatively, “My question is, if and when do I blow the entire nation up? They better behave,” threatening unfathomable consequences if Iran does not comply with his demands.

Despite Trump’s harsh rhetoric, reports suggest Tehran’s leadership may be looking for an opportunity to negotiate; however, Trump claimed they were “hiding like rats.” This pronouncement came in the context of the ongoing war, which has claimed the lives of at least 18 US service members and resulted in thousands of Iranian casualties. The prolonged hostilities have also begun to affect the global economy, most notably by raising gasoline prices in the United States to an average of £4.50 per gallon, significantly higher than the previous year.

As gas prices continue to rise, Trump made a statement regarding the public’s prioritisation of issues, implying that citizens would prefer higher fuel costs over the threat of Iran developing nuclear capabilities. He stated, “People don’t want to have Iran have a nuclear weapon, and you know what, they won’t. And the war is going to end soon, and when it ends, your gas prices are going to drop to a level that they were before, maybe even lower.”

Initially, the conflict commenced following a US and Israeli bombing campaign that began on February 28, with Trump predicting its swift conclusion within a matter of weeks. As time has dragged on, his forecasts have shifted, often misjudging the duration of the fighting. In recent weeks, he had expressed hope the conflict would soon wrap up, hinting at discussions between Iranian officials and outlining a possibility for peace talks.

Notably, Trump’s aggressive stance takes place against the backdrop of a recent United Nations report alleging war crimes resulting from US military strikes in Iran. An airstrike on a primary school in Minab reportedly led to the deaths of numerous children and staff, escalating concerns about civilian safety during military operations. Trump’s administration rejected the assertions made by the UN, labelling them as “anti-American” without acknowledging culpability.

The rising toll and the increasing scrutiny from human rights bodies have prompted calls for accountability. South African barrister Max du Plessis, a member of the UN’s fact-finding mission on Iran, stated that repeated airstrikes leading to civilian casualties raise doubts about adherence to international law and the necessity of taking precautionary measures to avoid harm to non-combatants.

As the UN General Assembly approaches, which Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian plans to attend, Trump hinted he might consider a meeting with the Iranian leader to discuss potential resolutions. The relationship between the two nations remains fraught, and the potential for diplomatic engagement presents a glimmer of hope amid ongoing hostilities.

Domestically, calls for a resolution to the conflict have also emerged from GOP representatives. Iowa Rep. Ashley Hinson, the Republican senator nominee, remarked on social media that the war in Iran needs to be brought to a successful and immediate end, referencing the economic strain it places on ordinary citizens.

The situation remains fluid, with many responding to Trump’s calculated threat of extreme military action while others advocate for a more diplomatic approach. As the global community watches closely, the implications of the former president’s decisions will undoubtedly shape the course of US-Iran relations in the future.