WASHINGTON (Web Desk) – US President Donald Trump signalled that the ongoing US-Israeli military campaign against Iran could wrap up within weeks, even as he warned of intensified attacks and made sweeping claims about the damage inflicted on Tehran.
In a 19-minute prime-time address from the White House, Trump described the conflict as a “decisive, overwhelming victory,” saying the US was “very close” to completing its mission in Iran.
He warned that strikes would intensify over the next two to three weeks, vowing to hit Iran “extremely hard,” while noting that discussions were continuing without providing details of any potential agreement or diplomatic roadmap.
Trump claimed Iran’s military capabilities, including missile and drone systems, had been significantly weakened, with weapons facilities and launch sites heavily damaged. However, he acknowledged that Tehran continues to retaliate, albeit with reduced capacity.
He also said nuclear sites had been targeted again in recent days, suggesting the destruction was so extensive that recovery would take months.
Reiterating his long-standing stance, Trump said Iran would never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons, accusing Tehran of aggressively pursuing such capabilities—an assertion disputed by independent observers.
Linking the conflict to past US policies, he argued that Israel’s security would have been at risk if the 2015 nuclear deal had remained in place.
In a notable remark, Trump denied seeking regime change but suggested it had effectively occurred due to the deaths of Iran’s top leadership.
Addressing concerns about the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route, he said it would reopen naturally and urged other nations to take responsibility for securing their energy supplies, while the US would play a supporting role.
Oil markets reacted during his speech, with prices rising by over 3 percent. While acknowledging economic concerns at home, Trump downplayed their impact, insisting the US economy remains strong.
Comparing the conflict to past wars, he noted the current operation has lasted just over a month, arguing it should be viewed in perspective and framing it as an investment in future security.
Despite his confident tone, the speech offered no new policy direction, leaving uncertainty over whether the conflict is nearing resolution or entering a more dangerous phase.
