Trump Threatens to ‘Destroy’ What Remains of Iran

US President Donald Trump

US President Donald Trump has said he will soon decide whether to expand the ongoing war against Iran, warning that the United States may have to “destroy what remains” of the country.

Trump made the remarks in an interview on Thursday night (November 5), as political pressure over the Iran war intensified following the Democrats' gains in the US midterm elections.

Questions have also emerged over how freely the Trump administration will be able to pursue military action before the new Congress begins its session in January.

The Democrats' electoral gains could increase congressional scrutiny of the administration's handling of the war. Some analysts, however, have warned that Trump could intensify military operations before the new Congress takes office.

A guest on Iranian state television suggested that Trump might launch a major attack on Iran during the roughly two-month period before the new Congress assumes its responsibilities in January. Other analysts cautioned that a change in congressional control would not necessarily bring the war to an end.

Trump's comments on the conflict have also appeared contradictory. While he has indicated that military operations could be expanded, he has also said there are no immediate plans for another major attack.

In an interview, Trump said there was currently no plan for another large-scale strike but added that the United States was prepared to act if necessary.

“We are fully prepared if necessary,” he said.

Trump has also defended his decision to launch the war against Iran, describing it as the right move.

Commenting on the midterm election results, he acknowledged that the war had played a role. However, he later placed greater emphasis on fuel prices, saying he believed the cost of petrol was a key factor behind the Democrats' gains.