President Donald Trump voiced strong disapproval of what he termed “fake news” media during a Monday interview with conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt. He accused the media of wanting the United States to lose its conflict with Iran. Trump defended the military actions taken by the U.S. and threatened more strikes against Tehran.

Trump claimed Iran’s military had suffered significant damage but continued to obtain favorable media coverage. He asserted, “All they do is talk and they have fake press. They do very well with the fake press, but because the fake news wants us to lose.” His remarks aimed to underline his dissatisfaction with the media’s portrayal.

He specifically criticized The New York Times for reporting that Iran was in a stronger position than before the U.S.-Israeli military campaign. Trump remarked that Iran lacked military capabilities. “They have no Navy, no Air Force, have no anything. They have no military, they have nothing,” he insisted.

Trump also pointed to Iran’s soaring inflation figures, criticizing the Times for allegedly suggesting that Iran was in better condition despite having its military capabilities diminished. He referenced an inflation increase to 301% from 5%.

“The Times said, and their inflation, by the way, just hit 301%, from 5%. They said, ‘Oh, they’re in better shape now than they were four months ago before I started,’” Trump stated.

The president did not provide specific details regarding the article he was referencing.

Trump also warned of more American military action, announcing imminent attacks following exchanges of missile and drone strikes. “We’re going to hit them very hard tonight,” he declared.

He mentioned the possibility of targeting Pickaxe Mountain, an underground complex near Iran’s damaged Natanz uranium enrichment facility, as part of the upcoming strikes.

“Pickaxe is a possible target for a nice big shot near the front door,” he suggested, emphasizing the site’s strategic importance.

The president claimed American surveillance was effectively monitoring the site and noted no resumed nuclear activity in the area. “We’re watching it closely. We see no activity there. They’re not doing well with their nuclear,” Trump maintained.

International inspectors had not accessed Pickaxe Mountain, but satellite imagery indicated possible ongoing construction. Trump reiterated that Iran’s leaders could not be trusted with nuclear weapons. “If they ever had a nuclear weapon, they’d use it within one day,” he cautioned.

Coinciding with Trump’s statements, the U.S. Central Command announced a resumption of vessel blockades to or from Iranian ports, allowing humanitarian shipments but warning of potential force against non-compliant ships.