Trump Threatens New Iran Strikes, Signals Cuba Shift After Conflict Ends

President Trump stated at a campaign rally in Fort Myers, Florida on October 23 that the U.S. could conduct another small-scale military operation against Iran, similar to the "Epic Fury" campaign that began on February 28. Trump said the operation could target Iran's nuclear capabilities, which he claimed had already been destroyed in previous strikes codenamed "Midnight Hammer" and "Epic Fury." He expressed skepticism about Iranian officials' willingness to negotiate, saying "if they are smart enough, they will say 'let's talk business'," but doubted they would take that course.

Trump described multiple possible approaches to the conflict. He stated the U.S. could end the war quickly if desired, but questioned whether rapid conclusion or gradual degradation of Iranian capabilities was preferable, claiming the U.S. had already "gotten everything we want." He also suggested the U.S. could seize Iran's oil reserves or "take the whole country," though he did not elaborate on feasibility. Earlier this month, Trump had stated the U.S. would not attack Iran before the midterm elections scheduled for November 3.

Trump linked resolution of the Iran conflict to renewed focus on Cuba. He told voters that once the Iran war ended, his administration would actively address Cuba, with U.S. naval forces returning from the Middle East potentially stopping in Cuban waters. He stated that a military ship would position itself approximately 50 yards off Cuba's coast, after which "Cuba will raise their hands and surrender," and Secretary of State Marco Rubio would "complete the final deal." This rhetoric targeted Florida's Cuban-American voters, a key Republican constituency; Trump won 68 percent of the Cuban-American vote in Florida in the 2024 election.

Following Trump's remarks, Rubio posted on social media urging Cubans to establish covert contact with U.S. intelligence agencies to facilitate "positive change" in Cuba. He referenced disappointment with unfulfilled promises, corruption, and privileges enjoyed by the few, framing such contact as an opportunity for change.

Cuba's Foreign Minister Rodriguez rejected Trump's threats the same day, stating Cuba refuses "all threats from the United States." The conflict with Iran entered its eighth month as Trump spoke, with rising fuel prices creating political pressure ahead of the midterm elections.