Trump Issues New Ultimatum to Iran: Negotiate or Face US 'Explosion'
US President Donald Trump issued a severe warning on Sunday, stating that he has entered a critical decision-making phase regarding the ongoing conflict with Iran. He reminded the international community that major developments are forthcoming if Tehran fails to change its conduct.
Quoting Anadolu Agency on Monday (21/0ielen/2026), the US President detailed his approach to the conflict during an interview with the US television network, Fox News.
“My question is whether and when I will blow up the entire nation? They had better watch their attitude,” he asserted.
Trump described his current options as ranging from erasing the country from the map and allowing it to rot economically, to negotiating a deal.
“Very big things will happen in the near future,” Trump said.
When asked about the UN General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level Week, which commenced on Monday, Trump signalled a readiness to engage diplomatically. He stated that he might be open to meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. To date, neither Tehran nor Pezeshkian has provided a direct response to Trump’s remarks regarding a potential meeting.
For context, the 81st UN General Assembly (UNGA 81) High-Level Week is taking place from 18 to 28 September at the UN Headquarters in New York, with the core General Debate scheduled from 22 to 28 September. Trump recently claimed that the war with Iran would likely conclude after the upcoming midterm elections in November.
Iran’s Threat
On the other hand, Iran’s military Central Command responded to the threat with an equally dire warning. They claimed to have gathered intelligence regarding preparations for new attacks against them.
“Any new attack will trigger sustained retaliation against US bases and interests, and Washington’s regional allies will be considered parties to the conflict,” the command stated.
This escalation represents a nightmare for US allies in the Gulf, who have been severely impacted by the war launched by the US and Israel without prior warning. Their cities are now frequently subjected to Iranian shelling, and their economies have been devastated by strict blockades in the vital Strait of Hormuz.
The suffering intensified on Saturday when the Tehran-backed Houthi group in Yemen launched missile and drone attacks on the Saudi capital, Riyadh, following sudden military advances in Yemen earlier this month. Video footage showed thick black smoke billowing from the area of Riyadh’s main international airport following overnight explosions.
In response to this series of attacks, the US Department of State immediately issued a security alert highlighting the potential for unexpected escalation in the Middle East. Washington has urged American citizens to increase vigilance and prepare for worst-case scenarios, including flight cancellations and airspace closures.