A senior US official told i24NEWS that President Trump is focused on making Iran pay for violating the MOU and for its actions in the Strait of Hormuz, and that the 'heavy blows' will continue until Trump decides otherwise — but diplomatic talks between the two countries continue.
Amichai Stein (i24NEWS) reported at 22:41 Jerusalem that a senior US official told the outlet that President Trump is focused on making Iran pay for violating the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and for its continued terrorist operations in the Strait of Hormuz, as well as for the recent death of American soldiers. The official said the 'heavy blows' will continue until the president decides otherwise, but stressed that 'the talks between our countries continue.'
The statement closely parallels a briefing given to N12's Barak Ravid at 22:39, as The Zioneer reported. The N12 version focused on Trump's determination to continue strikes until he decides otherwise, without explicitly mentioning ongoing talks. The i24NEWS account adds the detail that diplomatic channels remain open.
The remarks come during a period of simultaneous US military pressure and diplomatic engagement with Iran. Over the past month, the US has carried out multiple waves of strikes on Iranian targets, while also pursuing negotiations. The Zioneer has previously reported on Trump's warning of potential new strikes (July 8), the MOU not being final (June 17), and the expectation of clarity within 48 hours (June 9). The official's statement reinforces the dual-track approach.
The identity of the official was not disclosed, and the exact nature of the talks — whether direct or mediated — remains unconfirmed. The continuation of strikes is conditional on Trump's decision, which the official said has not changed.
2 developments
- DevelopingTrump: US strikes on Iran will continue until I say otherwise
- DevelopingTrump, angered, says Iran is 'stalling' nuclear deal, threatens immediate attack
- DevelopingTrump tells NYT he will 'renew military attacks' on Iran if nuclear talks falter
- StrongTrump: If Iran does not respect us, I will do what I must; addresses Lebanon and sanctions
Source and signal
- Internal intake