U.S. President Donald Trump declared on Wednesday that Iran has been severely weakened, signaling that the major part of the conflict has concluded. He assured the American populace that the core strategic goals are nearing achievement, indicating the imminent conclusion of the war. Despite asserting that Iran is no longer a significant threat, Trump refrained from specifying a precise timeline for the conflict’s resolution.
In a televised address on Wednesday, Trump emphasized that the U.S. military had significantly damaged Iran’s navy, air force, as well as impeding its ballistic missile and nuclear programs. He announced the continuation of targeting operations within Iran over the next two to three weeks, expressing confidence in swiftly completing the mission.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in a substantial disruption in the global energy market, leading to soaring gas prices and mounting pressure on Trump to swiftly resolve the crisis. Addressing the escalating gasoline costs, Trump assured that once the conflict ends, the Strait of Hormuz will naturally reopen, subsequently lowering gas prices.
Trump attributed the recent gas price surge to Iran’s aggressive actions against commercial oil tankers of neighboring nations, which are unrelated to the ongoing conflict. He had previously indicated his dissatisfaction with NATO’s lack of support for U.S. objectives in Iran, although he did not mention the alliance in his latest address.
Earlier reports suggested Iran’s willingness to continue fighting, with Iranian officials denying claims of seeking a ceasefire proposed by Trump. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized Iran’s commitment to defending itself without setting any deadlines.
Since the U.S. and Israel’s initial strike on Iran in late February, numerous casualties have been reported across the Middle East, with escalated tensions leading to Iranian attacks on various targets. Additionally, the deployment of additional U.S. troops to the region has raised concerns, although Trump did not elaborate on their specific mission.
Trump’s administration has contemplated potential military actions, including targeting Iran’s Kharg Island oil export hub and securing Iran’s uranium stockpile. These proposed operations are considered complex and hazardous, involving risks associated with radiation and chemical exposure, according to experts and former officials.