The U.S. president says renewed attacks on Iran are highly unlikely if negotiations produce a strong agreement, but warns that American forces have identified major infrastructure targets.
U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that American forces have identified 38 bridges in Iran that could be destroyed within an hour if Washington decides to resume military operations, adding a stark new dimension to the ongoing standoff between the two countries.
In a phone interview with CNN on Sunday, November 8, Trump said the United States was highly unlikely to launch further attacks if negotiations with Tehran continued to make progress and resulted in what he described as a strong agreement.
However, his comments also made clear that the military option remains available.
Trump identifies 38 bridges as potential targets
During the interview, Trump said the United States had identified infrastructure targets inside Iran, including bridges and power plants.
He specifically referred to 38 bridges, claiming that American forces could destroy them “in literally one hour.”
The president did not announce that an attack on those bridges had been ordered or that a new strike operation was underway. His remarks described potential targets in the event of renewed military action.
Trump also said he did not want to destroy Iranian infrastructure, arguing that rebuilding bridges would take years.
The comments are particularly significant because attacks on infrastructure can have consequences extending far beyond military facilities, potentially affecting transportation, electricity, commerce and civilian life.
Trump says further attacks are unlikely if a deal is reached
Despite the warning, Trump presented diplomacy as the preferred outcome.
Asked about the possibility of renewed U.S. attacks, he said such action was “highly unlikely” if Iran agreed to a sufficiently strong deal.
His position suggests that Washington is maintaining military pressure while leaving room for negotiations.
Trump also said American forces were prepared for further action if necessary, describing the U.S. military presence in the region as ready.
The president’s comments did not establish that an agreement had been reached or that Iran had accepted Washington’s conditions.
Iran negotiations remain tied to nuclear issues and the Strait of Hormuz
The confrontation between Washington and Tehran involves several major issues, including Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions, the U.S. naval blockade and the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
The waterway is one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes. Any prolonged disruption can affect oil and gas shipments, international trade and energy prices.
Qatar has been involved in diplomatic efforts between the two sides, while regional governments have continued contacts aimed at preventing a wider escalation.
The United States wants nuclear issues addressed as part of any agreement. Iran, meanwhile, has raised demands that include sanctions relief, access to frozen assets and an end to military and economic pressure.
The two sides have yet to announce a comprehensive agreement.
A warning with consequences beyond Iran
Trump’s reference to 38 bridges adds another layer to an already tense situation.
If military action resumes, attacks on major infrastructure could intensify the humanitarian and economic consequences of the conflict. The legal assessment of any specific attack would depend on the target, its military use, the expected civilian harm and the circumstances of the operation.
For now, Trump’s comments represent a warning about potential U.S. capabilities and targets — not confirmation that those targets will be attacked.
The central question is whether ongoing diplomatic efforts can produce an agreement strong enough to prevent another round of military strikes.
With the Strait of Hormuz and regional security at stake, the outcome could have implications well beyond Washington and Tehran.
Sources:
Leave a Reply