Trump Warns US ‘Hasn’t Started’ as Iran Retains Missile Power

US President Donald Trump warned that Washington has “not even started” its full military response after a strike in Tehran. Meanwhile, US intelligence says Iran still retains significant missile-launching capability despite ongoing attacks.

Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated sharply after a major bridge in Tehran was hit, with Donald Trump declaring that the US “hasn’t even started destroying what’s left.” The statement comes as US intelligence assessments indicate Iran continues to maintain substantial missile-launching capabilities despite sustained bombardment.

Key Developments

The Pentagon released images showing US Marines conducting simulated amphibious assault drills, signaling heightened military preparedness. At the same time, the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford has returned to sea following repairs after an onboard fire.

In parallel, the United Nations Security Council is set to vote on a Bahrain-backed proposal that could authorize nations to use “all defensive means necessary” to secure the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

Detailed Coverage

US intelligence sources reveal that despite repeated strikes, Iran’s missile infrastructure remains largely intact. This suggests that Tehran retains the ability to launch retaliatory attacks, raising concerns of prolonged escalation.

Further complicating the situation, Iranian state media claimed that its forces had shot down a US fighter jet. However, analysis of the released debris suggests it likely belongs to an F-15 fighter jet rather than the more advanced F-35 initially claimed.

The US Central Command has denied losing any aircraft, stating that “all US fighter aircraft are accounted for” and accusing Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of repeatedly making false claims.

Background & Context

The latest escalation comes amid rising instability in the Gulf region, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global oil transit chokepoint. Any disruption here could have severe consequences for global energy markets and maritime security.

Recent weeks have already seen attacks on commercial vessels, including a Thai ship where human remains were discovered following a strike. Three sailors remain missing, underscoring the growing human and economic toll of the conflict.

Official Statements / Quotes

President Trump stated:

“We haven’t even started destroying what’s left.”

Meanwhile, CENTCOM reiterated:

“All US fighter aircraft are accounted for,” dismissing Iran’s claims as repeated misinformation.

Impact Analysis

This situation has far-reaching implications:

Global Security: Rising US-Iran tensions risk triggering a broader regional conflict.
Energy Markets: Any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could spike global oil prices.
Military Escalation: Continued rhetoric and military movements suggest a potential intensification of conflict.
Diplomatic Fallout: The upcoming UNSC vote could redefine international involvement in securing key waterways.

Conclusion

The crisis between the US and Iran is entering a more dangerous phase, marked by aggressive rhetoric, military signaling, and contested claims. With the UN Security Council vote looming and both sides maintaining hardened positions, the coming days will be critical in determining whether tensions escalate further or shift toward diplomatic resolution.

Key Highlights

Trump warns US has “not even started” its military response
US intelligence says Iran still has strong missile capability
Tehran bridge strike intensifies conflict narrative
UNSC to vote on securing Strait of Hormuz
US denies Iranian claim of downed fighter jet
USS Gerald R. Ford returns to active deployment
Maritime security concerns rise after ship attack

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What did Donald Trump say about Iran?

Trump stated that the US has “not even started destroying what’s left” of Iran’s capabilities following recent strikes.

2. Does Iran still have missile capability?

Yes, US intelligence reports confirm Iran retains significant missile-launching capability despite ongoing attacks.

3. What is happening in the Strait of Hormuz?

The UN Security Council is preparing to vote on a proposal allowing military action to secure the vital shipping route.

4. Did Iran shoot down a US fighter jet?

Iran claims it did, but US Central Command has denied losing any aircraft and called the claim false.

5. Why is this conflict important globally?

Because it affects global oil supply routes, regional stability, and could potentially escalate into a wider conflict.

6. What happens next?

The upcoming UNSC vote and further military actions will likely determine the next phase of the crisis.

Trump Warns US ‘Hasn’t Started’ as Iran Retains Missile Power