Trump Threatens Iran with Military Action Similar to Venezuela Operation
Trump's Stark Warning to Iran
Former President Donald Trump has indicated that Iran might face a military intervention akin to the actions taken in Venezuela, suggesting that the UK and NATO allies could participate in such an operation. This statement follows the unsuccessful Islamabad Talks that took place over the weekend, which lasted more than 20 hours but yielded no results. The discussions involved a US delegation led by Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Parliament Speaker MB Ghalibaf.
After the talks concluded without any agreement, Trump expressed his frustrations on Truth Social, criticizing Iran for its refusal to abandon its nuclear ambitions. He escalated tensions further by threatening to 'obliterate' what remains of Iran and announced that the US Navy would 'immediately' position itself to block the Strait of Hormuz, warning that any nation attempting to cross while paying an illegal 'Hormuz toll' would face military consequences.
Reports indicate that Trump has warned Iran of potential actions similar to those taken in Venezuela, with NATO's backing. Throughout the ongoing conflict, Trump has criticized NATO, labeling it a 'paper tiger' for not supporting the US against Iran. He mentioned that NATO allies are keen on securing the Strait of Hormuz, hinting at the deployment of mine sweepers by the UK and other nations as part of this initiative. This statement broadens the scope of possible international involvement as tensions escalate regarding wartime security and Iran's policies in the Gulf and Middle East.
Background on the Venezuela Operation
On January 3, 2026, US forces executed a specialized military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, during a nighttime raid in Caracas. This operation, dubbed ‘Operation Absolute’, involved a meticulously planned air and ground assault that successfully apprehended Maduro while he was asleep.
The US justified this operation by alleging Maduro's involvement in drug trafficking and terrorism. During the execution of the operation, US forces employed advanced technology to disable the region's power supply, capturing Maduro and his wife and transporting them to New York to face criminal charges.
The operation lasted approximately 150 minutes, during which 150 aircraft from 20 different bases targeted and dismantled Venezuela’s air defense systems, including the ‘Fuerte Tiuna’ complex and ‘La Carlota’ airfield, ensuring air superiority over Caracas. Around 2 AM, US Delta Force units infiltrated Maduro’s residence via helicopter. Despite Maduro's attempts to hide in a secure room, he was ultimately captured. He is currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Centre in Brooklyn, New York.