President Donald Trump declared Wednesday that US military objectives in Iran are nearing completion but warned of two to three more weeks of intense strikes against the Islamic Republic, as the month-long conflict shows no clear path to resolution.
Speaking from the White House in his first national address since the war began February 28, Trump sought to reassure Americans that the joint US-Israeli campaign was achieving its goals despite rising fuel costs and declining approval ratings.
Thanks to the progress we've made, I can say tonight that we are on track to complete all of America's military objectives shortly, very shortly
Donald Trump, US President — Kyiv Post
The president claimed major battlefield victories, asserting that Iran's navy and air force have been destroyed and that key leadership figures are dead. He boasted of degrading Iran's missile and drone capabilities while targeting weapons infrastructure across the country.
Over the next two to three weeks, we are going to bring them back to the Stone Ages, where they belong
Donald Trump, US President — The New Arab
Trump's speech came hours after Israeli strikes on Tehran and amid continued Iranian missile attacks on Israeli territory. The conflict has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of global oil normally passes, sending energy prices soaring worldwide.
US gasoline prices have jumped above $4 per gallon for the first time since 2022, creating economic pressure on American consumers. Trump acknowledged the impact but insisted prices would fall quickly once the war ends.
The president defended the military action as necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, claiming the regime was on the verge of obtaining atomic capabilities. He also cited Iran's crackdown on domestic protesters as justification for the campaign.
This murderous regime also recently killed 45,000 of their own people
Donald Trump, US President — Radio Free Europe
Trump indicated openness to negotiations with what he described as Iran's new, more moderate leadership following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. However, he threatened to target Iran's electrical grid if no agreement is reached.
Iran swiftly rejected Trump's earlier claims that President Masoud Pezeshkian had requested a ceasefire, calling the assertion "false and baseless." The Islamic Republic continues to maintain control over the strategic Hormuz waterway despite weeks of bombardment.
The president's address did little to calm energy markets or provide concrete details about how the conflict might end. Trump urged European allies to take independent action to reopen shipping lanes, declaring that America no longer needs Middle Eastern oil.
Build up some delayed courage
Donald Trump, US President — The New Arab
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte is scheduled to visit Washington next week as tensions persist over alliance members' reluctance to support US operations in the Gulf. Trump has repeatedly criticized European allies for failing to assist in breaking Iran's blockade of the crucial shipping route.