President Donald Trump addressed the nation for the first time since the start of the war with Iran, defending the costs of the conflict while claiming the situation is nearing its final stages.
Trump said Iran had been heavily weakened and that the most difficult part of the war was already over. However, he added that the United States would continue major military operations for the next two to three weeks.
He told Americans that core strategic objectives were close to being completed and described recent military operations as swift and decisive victories on the battlefield.
The president also called on countries that receive oil through the Strait of Hormuz to take control of the key shipping route and protect it themselves, calling it an important global energy passage.
Trump also thanked several Middle Eastern allies, including Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Bahrain, saying the United States would not allow its allies in the region to be harmed.
The conflict has raised concerns about global oil supply, regional stability, and the potential for further escalation in the Middle East.
Trump’s comments suggest the administration believes the conflict could move toward its final phase within the coming weeks, though officials have not provided a specific timeline for the end of military operations.
