‘Will knock hell out of them’: Trump vows action if Iran rebuilds nukes; Watch Netanyahu’s reaction

The Economic TimesAbout 5 min readDec 30, 2025Watch original
THE SUMMARYAI-generated

Iran, Gaza, and Global Conflicts: Remarks by Donald Trump & Benjamin Netanyahu

Key Concepts:

  • Gaza Ceasefire: Negotiations for the next phase of the truce, focusing on disarmament of Hamas.
  • Iranian Nuclear Program: Concerns over Iran rebuilding its nuclear capabilities and potential US response.
  • Regional Conflicts: Discussions surrounding conflicts in Armenia/Azerbaijan, India/Pakistan, Syria, and Ukraine.
  • US Foreign Policy: Trump’s approach to international relations, emphasizing trade leverage and direct negotiation.
  • Disarmament of Hamas: A key condition for further progress in the Gaza ceasefire.
  • Putin’s Residence Alleged Attack: Claim by Putin to Trump regarding an attempted attack on his residence by Ukraine.

I. Gaza Ceasefire & Hamas Disarmament

The primary focus of the meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was advancing the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire. Trump announced “major progress” in the talks, stating that approximately three difficulties were resolved within a 5-minute meeting. A central tenet of this next phase, according to Trump, is the “disarming of Hamas.” He repeatedly emphasized this requirement, stating, “There has to be a disarming of Hamas…Otherwise, very quickly.” The reconstruction of Gaza is anticipated to begin “pretty soon,” even before complete disarmament, a point both Trump and Netanyahu expressed optimism about. A poignant anecdote was shared regarding a US citizen held in Gaza, with Trump expressing hope for their safe return.

II. Threat to Iran & Nuclear Facilities

Trump issued a strong warning regarding Iran, stating that if Iran attempts to rebuild its nuclear facilities, the United States “will knock them down. We’ll knock the hell out of them.” He suggested Iran had an opportunity to make a deal previously, but declined, and now “wish[es] they made that deal.” He indicated a willingness to negotiate a deal with Iran, but reiterated a firm stance against Iran developing nuclear weapons or missiles.

III. Resolution of Past Conflicts & Trade Leverage

Trump highlighted his role in resolving several long-standing conflicts, specifically mentioning the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict which he claimed had been ongoing for 35 years. He described using trade as a key tool, stating he threatened to cut off trade to both countries and imposed 200% tariffs, leading to a swift resolution. He claimed Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged Trump’s success in resolving this conflict, stating Putin told him he had been trying to settle the war for 10 years. Trump also cited his involvement in resolving conflicts between India and Pakistan, claiming to have settled “eight of them.” He lamented the lack of credit he receives for these diplomatic efforts.

IV. Syria & Turkey Relations

Trump discussed his approach to Syria, stating he lifted sanctions to give the country “a chance to survive.” He expressed hope for a positive relationship between Syria and Turkey, noting his “great relationship” with Turkish President Erdogan. He believes Turkey has been “very good” and anticipates further positive developments.

V. Ukraine Conflict & Alleged Attack on Putin’s Residence

Trump revealed that President Putin informed him of an alleged Ukrainian attempt to attack his residence in northern Russia. He expressed anger over this claim, characterizing it as “not good” and warning it could complicate peace efforts. He stated he was “very angry” about the alleged attack, learning about it directly from Putin. He also noted the high casualty rate in Ukraine, stating 26,000 soldiers are being killed each month. He referenced stopping “Tomahawks” during a delicate period, emphasizing the importance of avoiding escalation. He acknowledged the possibility the attack didn’t occur, but reiterated Putin’s claim.

VI. Meetings with US Officials

Prior to his meeting with Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegsath, indicating a coordinated approach to discussions on regional security.

VII. Trump’s Perspective on Netanyahu

Trump described Netanyahu as a “wartime prime minister who’s a hero” and suggested he should receive a pardon, stating, “How do you not give a pardon?” He indicated he had spoken to someone about the pardon being “on its way.”

Notable Quotes:

  • “We’re going to knock them down. We’ll knock the hell out of them.” – Donald Trump, regarding Iran’s potential nuclear program.
  • “There has to be a disarming of Hamas.” – Donald Trump, emphasizing a key condition for the Gaza ceasefire.
  • “I settled it in one day.” – Donald Trump, describing his resolution of the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict.
  • “President Putin told me about it early in the morning. He said he was attacked. That's no good.” – Donald Trump, regarding the alleged attack on Putin’s residence.

Data & Statistics:

  • 200% Tariffs: Imposed by Trump as leverage in the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict.
  • 35 Years: Duration of the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict prior to Trump’s intervention.
  • 26,000 Soldiers: Estimated number of Ukrainian soldiers killed per month, according to Trump.

Synthesis/Conclusion:

The discussions between Trump and Netanyahu centered on securing a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, contingent on Hamas disarmament, and deterring Iran from rebuilding its nuclear program. Trump presented a foreign policy approach characterized by direct negotiation, the use of trade as leverage, and a willingness to take decisive action. The conversation also touched upon several other global conflicts, highlighting Trump’s self-proclaimed role as a peacemaker and his reliance on direct communication with world leaders, including Vladimir Putin, for information and resolution. The alleged attack on Putin’s residence introduced a new layer of complexity to the Ukraine conflict, with Trump expressing concern about potential escalation.

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