US President Donald Trump has threatened to “blow the entire nation up” if Iran fails to meet his demands, as Tehran warned that any new US attack would trigger sustained strikes against American bases and interests across the region.
Trump told Fox News correspondent Trey Yingst that he was in a “deciding mode” over Iran, with options including reaching a deal, allowing the Iranian economy to deteriorate or “wiping Iran out”.
“My question is, if and when do I blow the entire nation up? They better behave,” Trump was quoted by Yingst as saying.
The remarks came as Iran said it had received information that the United States, backed by some regional countries, was preparing to resume military action against Tehran.
Iran’s central military command said any US attack would trigger sustained strikes on US bases and interests in the region, according to Iranian state media.
It also warned that countries supporting US military action against Iran would be considered parties to the conflict.
The threats came after Iran-backed Houthi forces launched an attack on Riyadh, opening a new front in the conflict, while Saudi Arabia said the attack had been intercepted.
Egypt, Jordan and Kuwait condemned the Houthi attack, saying it threatened regional security and stability and violated international law.
The US State Department has also issued a security alert warning Americans in the Middle East that hostilities involving Saudi Arabia and the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen could “escalate rapidly”, with US diplomatic missions warning of possible travel disruptions.
Trump’s latest remarks came as he prepares to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is also expected to be present.
Trump told Yingst he would “probably” be open to meeting Pezeshkian, although he said he remained in a “deciding mode” over the conflict.
The confrontation between Washington and Tehran remains ongoing, with the Strait of Hormuz and sanctions relief among the unresolved issues. The conflict has also disrupted regional energy supplies and intensified pressure on global oil markets. - September 21, 2026
