Trump threatens to 'blow up' Iran as Tehran warns of painful strikes

President Donald Trump threatened to "blow the entire nation up" if Iran fails to meet his demands, stating options include "wiping them out, letting Iran rot economically, or making a deal." Tehran has warned of "painful strikes" against the US and region in response. Iran's military command said any US attack would trigger sustained strikes on US bases and interests, warning regional nations supporting Washington would be considered parties to the conflict. The US State Department issued a security alert citing potential for rapid escalation between Saudi Arabia and Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. The war has cost US Central Command an estimated $43.6 billion as of September 3, with weapons and munitions costs rising over $6 billion in a month. Federal Reserve official Neel Kashkari said inflation remains too high across the economy, while Iran's mobilisation drive has extended to children under 15.