The White House delivered a blunt message to Tehran: accept reality or face even tougher consequences. Officials said Donald Trump is prepared to “unleash hell” if Iran refuses to come to an agreement following what the administration describes as decisive battlefield losses.
Speaking at a briefing, Karoline Leavitt warned that Iran “should not miscalculate again,” arguing that previous decisions have already cost the regime its senior leadership, navy, air force, and air defense capabilities. She emphasized that the president is still open to talks but that the opportunity may not last.
According to the White House, the warning follows major gains under Operation Epic Fury. Officials said more than 9,000 targets have been struck since the campaign began, while Iranian missile and drone attacks have dropped by roughly 90 percent. The administration also reported that over 140 Iranian naval vessels were destroyed, including nearly 50 mine layers, describing it as the most significant naval elimination in weeks since World War II.
The military campaign has expanded to include precision strikes on underground facilities and coastal missile systems, limiting Iran’s ability to threaten shipping lanes and conduct offensive operations. Officials added that the timeline for core objectives is moving faster than expected, with operations ahead of the initial four-to-six-week projection.
The administration stressed that despite the strong warning, diplomatic efforts remain active. The president temporarily postponed planned strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure after what were described as productive conversations. The move was framed as tactical leverage rather than a broader de-escalation.
The United States is also expanding its regional posture. Thousands of troops, including elements of the 82nd Airborne Division and Marine units, are deploying to the Middle East, providing additional options as negotiations continue.
The White House maintained that the president’s preference remains peace, but officials made clear that any further escalation would result from Iran refusing to acknowledge its military setbacks and declining to reach a deal.
