President Donald Trump announced that he considers the ceasefire and interim agreement with Iran to end the war to be “over.” He expressed willingness for negotiators to continue discussions but declared it a “waste of time.”

U.S.-Iran Tensions Escalate

The president’s comments followed Iranian attacks on American bases in the Gulf in response to new U.S. strikes. These U.S. strikes targeted Tehran after it allegedly attacked three commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. In retaliation, the U.S. revoked Iran’s ability to sell oil globally.

Iran Criticizes the U.S.

Before Trump’s remarks, Iran accused the U.S. and Israel of actions that undermined key parts of the agreement to end the conflict, according to Iran’s foreign ministry.

Khamenei’s Funeral Activities

This escalation coincided with a massive funeral in Iran for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The event seemed to cause a pause in peace talks, with the funeral moving to Najaf, Iraq.

NATO Summit Developments

President Trump attended the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey. Discussions included a pledge by Denmark’s leader to defend Greenland after Trump’s remarks about the Arctic territory.

At the summit, NATO chief Mark Rutte supported U.S. strikes on Iran, labeling them “absolutely necessary.” He stated Iran’s ceasefire violations warranted a strong response.

Trump’s Firm Stance

Asked whether the ceasefire with Iran had ended, Trump affirmed this, criticizing the Iranian leadership. “They’re sick people,” he commented, expressing distrust in negotiations. However, he mentioned negotiators could continue, while casting doubt on their effectiveness.

Renewed Military Actions

Trump reported that the U.S. military launched strong retaliatory attacks after Iran targeted American bases. These actions came amidst funeral events for Khamenei, temporarily halting negotiations.

Additional NATO Meetings

During the NATO summit, Trump was scheduled to meet Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy and Syria’s al-Sharaa amidst ongoing tensions over the regional conflicts involving Iran and Russia.

Continued Hostilities

Iran launched fresh attacks on the Gulf, prompting sirens in Bahrain. Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior advised residents to seek safety. Explosions were also reported in the Iranian port city of Bushehr, though reports about Kharg Island fell to claims.

U.S. Central Command released a video of renewed strikes on Iranian targets as part of an ongoing military exchange. These events further strained the ceasefire efforts, as the involved parties sought a path to peace.