Trump rules out using a nuclear bomb on Iran; Iran warns of immediate response to US energy threats

Former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly stated on Thursday that he would not use nuclear weapons against Iran, emphasizing that the United States does not require such measures to achieve its objectives. Speaking to Newsmax, Trump clarified that the "mother of all bombs" is a conventional munition and indicated that while ground troops are not foreseen, further conventional strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, such as "Pickaxe Mountain," remain a possibility.

This declaration comes amidst an intensification of U.S. sanctions against Iran, dubbed "Operation Economic Outcast," which have significantly impacted the Islamic Republic's economy. Recent measures in September 2026, targeting Iran's aviation and financial sectors, have resulted in numerous flight cancellations by Iranian airlines to various international destinations, including the UAE, Baghdad, Muscat, Georgia, and Azerbaijan.

The ongoing sanctions and conflict have caused substantial economic strain in Iran, leading to reported declines in trade and gross domestic product. The energy and industrial sectors have experienced contractions, and the Iranian rial has significantly depreciated, reflecting the mounting pressure on the country's economy.