PALM BEACH, FLORIDA (MNN); US President Donald Trump on Monday warned Iran that Washington could launch additional military strikes if Tehran attempts to revive its nuclear programme. The warning came during extensive discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.
Trump, who had earlier claimed that Iran’s nuclear facilities were “completely and fully destroyed” in US strikes carried out in June, suggested that new suspicious activities might be underway outside the previously targeted sites. Standing alongside Netanyahu, he said reports indicated Iran could be rebuilding its capabilities.
“I hear Iran is trying to build up again,” Trump told reporters. “If that’s confirmed, they know the consequences. They could be even stronger than last time.” He added that while he hoped such activity was not taking place, the United States was prepared to respond decisively.
Israeli officials have also voiced concerns in local media about Iran restoring its stockpile of long-range missiles capable of reaching Israel. Iran, however, maintains it has halted uranium enrichment and remains open to negotiations over its nuclear programme.
Trump’s remarks came as his administration seeks momentum on multiple fronts, including counter-narcotics operations in South America and efforts to sustain a US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The Gaza truce, while largely holding, has slowed ahead of its complex second phase, which involves disarmament, governance arrangements and reconstruction.
At a joint news conference, Trump said he wanted the second phase of the Gaza deal to begin quickly but stressed that Hamas must be disarmed. Netanyahu said Israel and Hamas would soon enter the next phase, although Israeli officials remain cautious, particularly over unresolved hostage issues.
The proposed second phase would involve rebuilding a demilitarised Gaza under international supervision through a body referred to as the Board of Peace. Palestinians would manage daily governance through a technocratic committee, while an international stabilisation force would oversee security. However, disagreements persist over the mandate and structure of such a force.
During the meeting, Trump also renewed his call for Israeli President Isaac Herzog to pardon Netanyahu, who is currently facing corruption charges. Trump described Netanyahu as a wartime leader deserving of clemency, while Herzog’s office said the request was still under review according to established procedures.
