President Donald Trump declared Iran "dead" and vowed a strong response following renewed clashes, including an Iranian missile strike on a base hosting US troops in Jordan. The US president also called for Iran's leaders to be prosecuted for "war crimes against humanity" related to the country's crackdown on protesters.

The escalating tensions come as the US-Israel war on Iran, now in its seventh month, sees a resurgence of direct conflict. Trump reiterated his long-held view that Iran's governing system is on the verge of collapse, citing economic instability and internal disarray.

Trump stated on social media that Iran "is officially a Failed Nation" and "IT IS DEAD!" He detailed his assessment by listing the country's perceived weaknesses, including a lack of a significant navy or air force, a devalued currency, and an inability to pay its soldiers and police. He also cited "Inflation is at 300%" and "their leadership is in total disarray."

The recent flare-up began Sunday when the US military struck Iran's Larak Island, targeting launchers preparing to fire rockets with naval mines at the Strait of Hormuz. Iran retaliated by launching missiles at the base in Jordan, demonstrating its capacity and willingness to strike back.

Speaking to Fox News, Trump promised a forceful reaction to Iran's attack: "We're going to hit them hard. There will be a response." This exchange marks the first direct military confrontation between the two nations since July.

Trump also criticized Iran's internal policies, particularly its handling of anti-government demonstrations. He alleged that the regime's survival depends on "FAKE NEWS from the USA," a willingness to kill protesters, and "BULL****." He cited an alleged death toll of "now over 100,000 people dead" among protesters, a figure higher than previous accusations he made.

Despite Trump's pronouncements of Iran's imminent collapse, the Iranian regime has remained in power, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps actively leading the war effort. The recent attacks underscore the persistent risk of conflict, even as the Trump administration had previously indicated a shift towards economic pressure rather than direct military operations.

The situation remains volatile, with the recent exchange raising concerns about a potential wider escalation and prolonging the ongoing conflict without a clear path to a resolution or a permanent end to hostilities.