Following a missile attack on Israel’s largest oil refinery, US President Donald Trump has warned Iran that the US will respond “shortly.”

The warning follows Iran’s increased attacks on vital infrastructure, such as a missile barrage that started a large fire at a refinery in Haifa and a strike on a water and electrical facility in Kuwait.

In an interview, Trump stated that the US would soon ascertain whether Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the speaker of Iran’s parliament, is open to speaking with US officials.

“We’re going to find out,” Trump said. “I’ll let you know that in about a week.”

He urged Iran’s leadership to reach a deal quickly, warning of severe consequences if diplomatic efforts fail.
 
Trump also claimed there has been a major shift within Iran’s leadership, suggesting that a new group has replaced the old guard and is proving more open to engagement.
 
“There has been total regime change because the regimes of the past are gone and we’re dealing with a whole new set of people,” he said. “And thus far, they’ve been much more reasonable.”
 
He further raised concerns about the condition of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, noting uncertainty over his health and prolonged absence from public view.

“Nobody’s heard from him… we think probably yes, but in extraordinarily bad shape,” Trump said.
 
The developments come amid a broader conflict between Iran and Israel, with continued strikes on energy infrastructure over the past month.

Global oil prices reacted sharply to the escalation, rising to about $115 per barrel, while average gasoline prices in the United States climbed to $3.99 per gallon, their highest level since 2022.

Additionally, Trump cautioned that if a peace deal is not reached quickly, the US may target Iran’s vital infrastructure, such as power plants, oil facilities, and strategic locations.