Iran Retaliates with Missile Strikes — Death Toll Grows

President Donald Trump

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The U.S. joined Israel in striking Iran’s nuclear sites on June 21. President Donald Trump ordered a strike on three nuclear sites in “Operation Midnight Hammer.” President Donald Trump wrote, "Monumental Damage was done to all Nuclear sites in Iran." Israel continues to target Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure. Iran has retaliated with missile strikes, including one hitting an Israeli hospital.

Israeli strikes have killed at least 400 people and injured 3,000 in Iran during the last ten days. Iran's retaliatory strikes have resulted in 24 deaths in Israel.

Trump in Fort Lauderdale

President Donald Trump, Trump in Fort Lauderdale, Trump at Macomb Community College, Trump at Dort Financial Center, Trump dances on stage, Trump on Air Force One, Trump talks to military troops, Trump speaks in Roseville

Trump has expressed openness to further strikes if Iran does not comply but has also suggested diplomacy, with no clear resolution. Iran’s leadership warns of severe consequences for U.S. involvement, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.

Trump at Macomb Community College

President Donald Trump, Trump in Fort Lauderdale, Trump at Macomb Community College, Trump at Dort Financial Center, Trump dances on stage, Trump on Air Force One, Trump talks to military troops, Trump speaks in Roseville

Prior to the airstrike, Trump said, “The United States is not involved in Israel's military strikes against Iran, but it's possible we could get involved.” He noted, “We're not involved in it. It's possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved.”

Trump at Dort Financial Center

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Trump added, “I would be open to it. Putin is ready. He called me about it. We had a long talk about it. We talked about this more than his situation. This is something I believe is going to get resolved.”

Trump dances on stage

President Donald Trump, Trump in Fort Lauderdale, Trump at Macomb Community College, Trump at Dort Financial Center, Trump dances on stage, Trump on Air Force One, Trump talks to military troops, Trump speaks in Roseville

Trump initially mentioned a 60-day ultimatum for a deal but gave no new deadlines. Israel and Iran traded strikes for multiple days, leading to numerous casualties. Israel has praised the Israeli Defense Forces' successful targeting of key Iranian military sites and commanders.

Trump on Air Force One

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Iran canceled nuclear talks with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff in Oman, citing Israeli attacks. Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi called the negotiations unjustifiable due to perceived U.S. support for the strikes.

Trump talks to military troops

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Iran reportedly expressed a desire to resume nuclear talks with the U.S. and Israel through Arab intermediaries. Trump initially believed that Iran appears willing to negotiate to prevent further escalation.

Trump speaks in Roseville

President Donald Trump, Trump in Fort Lauderdale, Trump at Macomb Community College, Trump at Dort Financial Center, Trump dances on stage, Trump on Air Force One, Trump talks to military troops, Trump speaks in Roseville

Trump said, "Something like this had to happen because I think even from both sides, but something like this had to happen. They want to talk, and they will be talking."

Emily Prescott covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.