Trump threatens to destroy Iran's civilian infrastructure if a deal is not reached 'shortly'

Source: AP

By JON GAMBRELL, JOSH BOAK and MIKE CORDER
Updated 10:00 AM CDT, March 30, 2026
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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday threatened widespread destruction of Iran’s energy resources and other vital infrastructure, including desalination plants, if a deal to end the war is not reached “shortly.”

Tehran meanwhile struck a key water and electrical plant in Kuwait, and an oil refinery in Israel came under attack. Israel and the U.S. launched a new wave of strikes on Iran, as the war raged with no end in sight.

Trump’s new threat in a social media post and earlier comments in an interview with the Financial Times that suggested American troops could seize Iran’s Kharg Island oil export hub highlighted a frequent tactic. He has repeatedly claimed to be making diplomatic progress— though Tehran denies negotiating directly — while ramping up his threats and sending thousands more U.S. troops to the Middle East.

It remains unclear where the diplomatic effort facilitated by Pakistan stands. Iran’s continuing attacks on its Gulf neighbors could further complicate any talks. The United Arab Emirates — which has long billed itself as a beacon of stability in a volatile region — has been hard hit in the war, and is signaling it wants Iran disarmed in any ceasefire. Iran’s theocracy likely won’t accept that.



Read more: https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-israel-trump-lebanon-march-30-2026-8abb0ee50be4cd8dd9ddde3a9d846ef8