Trump says he ordered strikes on Iran

Officials said President Donald Trump told aides he has left instructions for a large military response should Iran succeed in a plot to kill him.

Retaliation instructions against Iran

Officials said the president reiterated a long-standing view that Iran has sought to target him and dismissed reports of a fresh plot. He warned of a level of retaliation he described as without precedent.

> "bomb Iran at levels they've never seen before"

The president said the comment reflected standing orders to respond forcefully if an assassination attempt were carried out. Officials emphasised the remark was framed as a deterrent rather than an imminent operational plan.

Analysts and officials said the statement raises regional tensions because Iran is a major crude producer and because military escalations can disrupt shipping and alliances across the Middle East. Military planners will weigh proportionality, basing access, and diplomatic fallout before any action.

Expect increased contact between the White House and allies over the next 72 hours and watch for an official statement clarifying posture. A White House security briefing or public clarification is likely by 13 July 2026, officials said.