Trump's Ultimatum to Iran: Bombing Will Begin If No Deal Reached

Assuming Iran agrees to provide what has been agreed upon—which may be a big assumption—then the legendary Operation Epic Fury will end, and a highly effective blockade will allow the Strait of Hormuz to be OPEN TO ALL, including Iran. If they do not agree, bombing will begin, and unfortunately it will be done at a level and intensity far higher than before,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social, as reported by CNN on Wednesday (6/5/2026). Trump stated that the US is still open to a deal that would end US military operations against Iran. However, he added that the likelihood of reaching such an agreement is a “big assumption.” Previously, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters that Operation Epic Fury has actually ended. “The operation is finished. Epic Fury, as the president informed Congress, we have completed that phase,” Rubio said during a press conference. It is known that the White House has informed members of Congress that the war has ended due to the ceasefire. This means avoiding the legal requirements to seek congressional approval for a conflict lasting more than 60 days. Nevertheless, US President Donald Trump has threatened Iran with major retaliation if it attacks US ships. Trump announced last Sunday what is called “Project Freedom” to help ships leave the Strait of Hormuz. “This is not an offensive operation; it is a defensive operation,” Rubio said. “The meaning is simple—no shooting unless we are shot at first,” he added. Israel and the United States attacked Iran on 28 February, killing leaders and destroying major military and economic sites. Iran then responded with missile and drone attacks in various regions. On 8 April, Trump announced a ceasefire with Iran that was subsequently extended, although negotiations with Tehran remain deadlocked.