WASHINGTON — September 3, 2026

President Donald Trump has issued one of his strongest warnings yet to Iran as fighting between the United States and Tehran intensifies across the Middle East.

Speaking after a new wave of U.S. strikes, Trump said the United States is prepared to launch additional attacks against Iranian targets and warned that Washington could act “anytime we want.”

The latest escalation has raised fresh concerns that the conflict could become even wider, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.

Iran has responded with attacks targeting areas where U.S. forces and American allies are stationed across the region, including Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan.

The conflict is also beginning to hit Americans where they can feel it immediately: at the gas pump.

Oil prices climbed sharply Thursday as markets reacted to the renewed fighting and growing uncertainty over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude rose to around $97 a barrel, increasing pressure on energy markets worldwide.

For Americans who remember previous Middle East conflicts and oil shocks, the developments are raising an uncomfortable question:

How much worse could this get if the fighting continues?

Trump, however, has insisted that the United States remains in a strong position and has suggested that he does not expect the war to continue indefinitely.

At the same time, U.S. officials are preparing for the possibility that the conflict could last longer than originally expected.

The coming days could be critical.

With American forces operating in the region, Iran threatening retaliation and the Strait of Hormuz remaining under intense pressure, a single new attack could dramatically change the situation.

Do you think President Trump should push for an end to the war — or continue putting maximum pressure on Iran?