Temperatures are soaring in the Middle East as tensions between the United States and Iran reach a new flashpoint. In an interview with conservative commentator Hugh Hewitt late Monday, July 13, 2026, former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Tehran: “We will hit you hard” — either that night or the following day.
“Pickaxe Mountain” Targeted
Trump specifically referenced Iran’s underground nuclear facility, known as “Pickaxe Mountain,” saying, “We will destroy Pickaxe Mountain.” He also dismissed the recently signed Memo of Understanding with Tehran — a ceasefire agreement meant to pave the way for broader negotiations — calling it merely “a test” that Iran had failed. “Memoranda of Understanding don’t mean much when you’re dealing with bad actors,” he added.
U.S. Central Command Confirms Third Night of Strikes
Shortly after Trump’s remarks, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed it had launched its third consecutive night of military strikes against Iranian targets at 11:45 p.m. local time in Greece (4:45 p.m. ET), acting on orders from the Commander-in-Chief. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), CENTCOM stated the operations aim to “impose a heavy cost on Iranian forces and degrade their ability to attack innocent civilians and commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.”
Fragile Ceasefire Collapsing
The ceasefire agreement, signed just last month, was intended to initiate a 60-day diplomatic window to address complex nuclear issues — including halting Iran’s path to a nuclear weapon, restoring free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and ending active hostilities. Trump had previously hailed the deal as achieving all key U.S. objectives. But now, with both sides resuming attacks across the region, the accord appears to be unraveling.
Relations with Israel
When asked about his relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump said ties were “very good,” adding that while they occasionally disagree, he voices those disagreements directly.
Trump also labeled Iran’s leadership “violent,” yet claimed the Trump administration still wants to help the Iranian people — underscoring a recurring theme in his foreign policy rhetoric: distinguishing between regime and population.