Trump Warns of Iran Strikes if No Deal by 8 p.m. ET

President Donald Trump warned Tuesday that the United States will launch unprecedented military strikes against Iran if the country fails to reach a deal by 8 p.m. Eastern Time, escalating a crisis centered on the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear activities.

In a phone conversation with Fox News anchor Bret Baier, Trump confirmed the deadline's firmness, stating that military plans are advancing. Baier recounted the exchange on air, saying Trump declined to estimate the chances of a negotiated resolution but emphasized, "8 p.m. is happening." He added that Trump indicated an attack "like they have not seen" would follow if no concrete progress emerges, though a breakthrough in talks could alter the course. The president expressed reluctance for military action but noted the administration is preparing as if it is inevitable.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reinforced the ultimatum in a statement, saying, "The Iranian regime has until 8 p.m. Eastern Time to meet the moment and make a deal with the United States. Only the President knows where things stand and what he will do." Earlier, Trump posted on Truth Social, writing, "A whole civilization will die tonight,...