Donald Trump stated the U.S. is nearing its strategic goals in Iran, warning of devastating attacks unless a deal is reached.
Trump Announces Imminent Strikes on Iran
President Trump declared that American forces are close to achieving their main strategic objectives in Iran, stating they would “finish it very quickly.” He expressed gratitude to allies including Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Bahrain, promising they would not be harmed.
Trump threatened that within two to three weeks, the U.S. would strike Iran “extremely hard,” returning it to the “stone age.” He acknowledged ongoing talks but asserted a regime change in Iran had occurred, though not as a primary objective.
Further Attacks and Targeting of Iranian Infrastructure
Trump announced further attacks on Iran, stating that if no agreement is reached, the U.S. would “hit very hard” all of Iran’s nuclear facilities, potentially simultaneously. He also warned of attacks targeting Iran’s oil sector, claiming the U.S. holds all the cards.
Claims of Victory in “Epic Fury” Operation
Trump assessed that within four weeks of “Operation Epic Fury,” U.S. forces achieved “rapid, decisive, and overwhelming” victories. He reiterated that the Iranian navy is destroyed, its air force “is in ruins,” and most leaders are dead. He also claimed significant reductions in Iran’s drone and ballistic missile capabilities.
Trump asserted that Iran has suffered “massive and devastating” losses in just a few weeks, unprecedented in the history of warfare.
Trump’s Address and Remarks on Allies
President Trump delivered an address to the nation regarding the progress of the war with Iran, appearing visibly fatigued. He predicted attacks would continue for the “next 2-3 weeks.”
Trump urged his allies to “muster a little courage,” repeating that the U.S. does not need the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has been blocking since February 28th. He stated that countries reliant on the strait should secure it themselves.
Call for Allies to Take Initiative and Purchase U.S. Oil
Trump claimed the U.S. has “completely decimated” Iran militarily, economically, and in every other way. He suggested that nations dependent on oil transported through the Strait of Hormuz should maintain it, offering U.S. assistance but emphasizing their responsibility. He also encouraged countries struggling to secure fuel to purchase oil from the United States, stating the U.S. has ample supply.
NATO Consideration Not Addressed
Earlier, Trump had indicated he would announce a consideration of withdrawing the U.S. from NATO during his evening address. He previously described the alliance as a “paper tiger.” However, he did not address this issue in his speech.
Analysis of Regional Impact
Analysts note that while the U.S. faces significant costs and regional instability, Israel is successfully achieving its strategic goals of destroying Iranian infrastructure and weakening Hezbollah.
