According to a report by the Times of Israel on Wednesday July 29, 2026, US President Donald Trump has warned that Washington will respond forcefully to Iran following overnight attacks on American assets in the Middle East, signalling that further military action is likely despite ongoing diplomatic contacts between the two countries.

Speaking in a telephone interview with Fox News, Trump said the United States would retaliate after Iranian strikes targeted US positions in the region. “We’ll be hitting them hard. They’re going to get a beating,” he said.

The president described the missile attack on US forces in Jordan as a surprise assault, claiming American troops had only a matter of minutes to intercept the incoming missiles before they reached their targets.

Trump also defended the recent joint US-Saudi military operations against Iran-backed militia groups in Iraq. According to him, those strikes were carried out in coordination with the Iraqi government, and he argued that the militias pose a serious threat to regional stability.

Even as tensions continue to rise, Trump indicated that diplomatic efforts have not been abandoned. He said his negotiating team would remain engaged in talks with Iranian representatives, indicating Washington still sees room for dialogue alongside its military response.

The President also commented briefly on his recent meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing the discussions as productive. Trump added that the Israeli leader “understands now,” although he did not explain what he was referring to or provide additional details.

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