Trump threatens to ‘obliterate’ Iran’s energy grid if ceasefire not reached ‘shortly’

Oil prices on course for record monthly rise amid risk of further escalation and mixed messaging from US

Donald Trump has threatened to “obliterate” Iran’s power stations and fresh water plants if Tehran does not agree to peace terms “shortly”, even as he claimed diplomatic progress in ending the war that was instigated by the US and Israel.

Tehran has remained defiant during the month-long conflict, describing US peace proposals as “excessive, unrealistic and irrational” and firing waves of missiles at Israel.