In a national address on the ongoing war with Iran, U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States is nearing the completion of its core military objectives and vowed that American forces will “finish the job.” Speaking one month after the launch of Operation Epic Fury, Trump said the campaign has significantly weakened Iran’s military capabilities. He claimed that Iran’s navy has been largely destroyed, its air force severely damaged, and several senior leaders eliminated during the conflict. The U.S. president stated that American forces have also curtailed Iran’s missile and drone capabilities and are now “systematically dismantling” the regime’s ability to threaten the United States or project power beyond its borders.
Trump framed the military campaign as necessary for global security, arguing that a nuclear-armed Iran would pose an “intolerable threat.” He insisted that Washington would never allow Tehran to obtain nuclear weapons. Referring to earlier U.S. strikes, Trump said American forces had “totally obliterated” Iran’s nuclear facilities but accused the Iranian regime of attempting to rebuild its nuclear program at a different location. During the address, Trump also thanked regional allies, including Israel and several Gulf nations, for supporting the U.S. campaign. He said the attacks launched by Iran against neighboring countries highlight the need to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons.
The conflict has also disrupted global energy markets, particularly after shipping through the strategic Strait of Hormuz was affected, raising concerns about fuel shortages in Asia and supply constraints in Europe. Despite rising fuel prices in the United States since the war began, Trump blamed the Iranian regime for attacks on oil tankers and regional instability. He maintained that the United States is prepared to handle the economic impact while continuing military operations until its objectives are fully achieved.