Washington, Apr 3:
Donald Trump said US forces will soon “finish the job” in Iran, claiming that core strategic objectives in the war are nearing completion.
In a prime-time address, he described recent operations as “swift, decisive, overwhelming victories,” asserting that Iran’s military strength has been significantly weakened.
He said the campaign aims to destroy Iran’s missile production, eliminate its navy, weaken its regional proxies, and prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Trump claimed major battlefield success, stating that Iran’s missile and drone capabilities have been “dramatically curtailed,” its navy is “gone,” and its air force “in ruins.”
He also said leadership elements and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps are being heavily degraded, though independent assessments have questioned claims that Iran has been fully “decimated.”
He warned that the US would launch further strikes if Iran makes any move toward developing nuclear weapons, adding that its nuclear sites are under intense surveillance.
He emphasised that the conflict is not about securing resources, arguing that the US is energy independent and produces more oil and gas than countries like Saudi Arabia and Russia combined. Instead, he said the US presence is meant to support allies.
He also sought to reassure Americans about rising fuel costs, citing strong domestic production.
Trump criticised Barack Obama’s nuclear deal with Iran, claiming it would have enabled Tehran to build a large nuclear arsenal, while Iran maintains its programme is peaceful.
He compared the current conflict’s 32-day duration to longer past wars, arguing it has been unusually fast and effective, though public opinion remains divided, with polls suggesting many Americans believe US actions have gone too far.
As in earlier developments, the Strait of Hormuz remains a central issue. Its disruption has driven global energy price increases, but Trump said the US does not rely on it and urged other nations dependent on the route to take responsibility for securing it.