Oil prices spiked and global markets slid after Donald Trump warned that the US would hit Iran “extremely hard” during a primetime White House address.
An Iranian military spokesperson responded with a stark warning of “crushing, broader and destructive” retaliation.
Trump also urged allies to “build up the courage” to protect shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, insisting the US no longer depends on them.
Much of the speech repeated points he has made in recent days, leaving several key questions unresolved, according to analysts.
Markets reacted nervously, with oil jumping to $106 a barrel and Asian stocks falling sharply—particularly in economies heavily reliant on Middle Eastern crude.
Earlier, Iran’s foreign ministry dismissed Trump’s claim that Tehran had sought a ceasefire as “false and baseless.”
Meanwhile, the conflict is deepening divisions within Iranian society, with even government critics split over whether the war could bring change or make matters worse.
