Trump: Iran attacks in Gulf are 'out of control, they badly want to make a deal'

What Happened

On July 7, 2025, US Central Command (CENTCOM) struck approximately 80 Iranian military targets, including more than 60 Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) small boats, in retaliation for Iran's alleged violation of a ceasefire by attacking three commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump, speaking to reporters on Air Force One, claimed Iran 'badly' wants to make a deal but described their attacks as 'out of control,' threatening that the US would respond '20-to-1' to any future Iranian strikes. A US official told The Jerusalem Post that if Iran continues firing, such strikes could become a daily or weekly occurrence.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The US strikes mark a direct military escalation against Iranian assets in the vital Strait of Hormuz, raising the risk of a broader conflict that could disrupt global oil transit. Trump's threats of disproportionate retaliation signal a hardline stance that could either pressure Iran into negotiations or provoke further tit-for-tat exchanges, testing the durability of any existing ceasefire.

Watch For

Iran's official response and any retaliatory actions in the Strait of Hormuz or through regional proxies. Statements from CENTCOM on additional strikes if Iranian attacks continue. Potential diplomatic signals from Iran regarding a deal, as Trump claims Iran seeks negotiations.