Trump Warns of "Massive Attack" Imminent; Iran Vows "Heavier Price"

<앵커>

U.S. President Donald Trump has pressured Iran, stating that a massive attack is imminent. Iran responded by warning that the U.S. will face an even heavier price. Meanwhile, international oil prices have surpassed $100 per barrel.

Reporter Yu Deok-gi has the details.

<기자>

In an interview with the media, U.S. President Donald Trump stated, "We are considering a massive attack on Iran," adding, "We are right on the verge of making a decision and all preparations are complete."

He also remarked that "Iran has not suffered enough yet," and added, "Israel will join within two minutes if requested."

This signals a large-scale military offensive against Iran.

This warning came after Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels attacked a Saudi oil tanker attempting to pass through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a gateway to the Red Sea.

Via social media, President Trump defined the Houthis as a proxy force for Iran, warning that if merchant vessel attacks continue, severe military retaliation will be inflicted on both the Houthis and Iran.

He also stated that the damages inflicted on ships and cargo by Iran's merchant vessel attacks would be compensated using Iranian funds held and controlled by the United States.

In response to Trump's successive threats, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi hit back, saying, "Reckless attacks will only force Trump to pay an even greater price for the negotiations he is pursuing."

U.S. airstrikes against Iran entered their 13th day.

The U.S. military has intensively targeted Iranian military capabilities used to attack merchant ships in the Strait of Hormuz, including Iran's communication networks, drone bases, and naval-related facilities.

Local reports emerged that air defense systems were activated not only near the Strait of Hormuz, such as Qeshm Island and Bandar Abbas, but also in parts of the Iranian capital, Tehran.

Amid growing concerns over an expanded military conflict and the risk of a Red Sea blockade, Brent crude, the benchmark for international oil prices, broke through $100 per barrel for the first time in two months.

(Video Editing: Cho Mu-hwan)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.