Trump escalates Iran threat, says country could be ‘taken out in one night’

US President Donald Trump on April 6 dramatically escalated rhetoric against Iran, warning that the country could be “taken out” in a single night and suggesting such an operation could begin as early as Tuesday evening.

Speaking to reporters at the White House ahead of a self-imposed deadline tied to potential strikes on Iranian energy and infrastructure, Trump said, “The entire country could be taken out in one night, and that night might be tomorrow night.”

Ceasefire rejected, tensions deepen

Trump’s remarks came hours after Tehran rejected a US-backed ceasefire proposal, instead outlining a 10-point framework seeking a permanent end to hostilities, including in Lebanon and Gaza.

According to Iranian state media, the proposal — routed via Pakistan — calls for guarantees against renewed conflict, recognition of Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz, lifting of sanctions, and acceptance of its nuclear rights under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

Dismissing Tehran’s position, Trump claimed Iran was seeking a ceasefire because it was “getting obliterated,” adding that multiple opportunities to end the conflict had been ignored.

“I’m very upset with Iran,” he said, warning that Tehran would “pay a big price” if no deal is reached.

Sweeping strikes ‘within hours’

Further raising stakes, Trump outlined what he described as a rapid, large-scale military plan targeting Iran’s core infrastructure.

“We have a plan where every bridge in Iran will be decimated, where every power plant will be out of business — burning, exploding and never to be used again,” he said, adding such an operation could be executed within four hours.

While noting “we don’t want that,” Trump said rebuilding such damage would take decades.