Kathmandu— United States Vice President JD Vance said that an AI-generated video posted by President Donald Trump, showing missiles raining down on Iran’s Kharg Island, was meant as a warning to Iran. The video appeared on Sunday night, followed by more stern warnings from Trump on Monday, including calling Iran “dead” and a “failed nation.” Vance emphasized that the message conveyed through these actions is aimed at deterring Iran from threatening commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

AI-Generated Video's Message

The AI-generated video, which depicts missiles striking Kharg Island’s oil-processing infrastructure, was posted by President Trump on his Truth Social account. Vance explained that this visual warning is part of a broader strategy to communicate potential consequences if Iran continues its aggressive actions against commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. "You guys are shooting at commercial shipping. You guys are behaving like a terrorist country. You’ve got to stop or there are going to be some consequences," Vance told reporters.

Escalating Tensions

The video and subsequent statements come amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran, which have exchanged fire for the first time in nearly a month. On Sunday, the US targeted launchers on Larak Island that were preparing to deploy naval mines into the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran retaliated by launching missiles at three airbases in the UAE and Jordan where US forces are stationed.

Historical Context

The recent threats follow a pattern of aggressive rhetoric and military action. In February, Trump initiated a war on Iran with Israel’s support, and in March, US forces struck Iranian military facilities on Kharg Island without targeting oil infrastructure. The ongoing conflict is part of the broader effort to secure commercial shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.