- US President Trump said war with Iran is nearing its end within two to three weeks
- He warned of intensified US strikes if no agreement is reached during this period
- Trump threatened to target Iran's energy infrastructure if talks fail to produce a deal
US President Donald Trump said the war with Iran is nearing its end but warned of intensified strikes in the coming weeks, signalling a mix of military escalation and continued diplomatic efforts.
In a televised address from the White House, Trump said US operations are close to achieving their objectives, even as he set a two- to three-week window for either a deal or further attacks. The conflict, which began on Feb. 28 with US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has entered its second month and continues to disrupt global energy markets and supply routes.
Here are the key highlights from the speech:
War Timeline
Trump said the conflict is close to ending, despite extending the expected duration. “We are going to finish the job, and we're going to finish it very fast,” he said, adding that operations could conclude within two to three weeks.
Military Pressure
The president warned of intensified strikes if no agreement is reached. “We're going to hit them extremely hard over the next two to three weeks,” he said.
Power Targets
Trump said the US could target Iran's energy infrastructure if talks fail. “If there is no deal, we are going to hit each and every one of their electric generating plants very hard, and probably simultaneously,” he said.
Strategic Goals
Trump said US military objectives are close to being achieved.
“Tonight, I'm pleased to say that the core strategic objectives are nearing completion,” he said.
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'Regime Damage'
Trump said US strikes have weakened Iran's military capabilities.
“Iran's navy is gone. Their air force is in ruins,” he said, adding that missile and drone capabilities had been reduced.
Diplomatic Option
Despite the escalation, Trump said talks with Iran are continuing, leaving room for a negotiated outcome.
Oil Comment
Trump said the conflict is not driven by energy needs.
“We don't need their oil… we are there to help our allies,” he said.
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Past Decisions
Trump said his administration had taken steps previous presidents avoided.
“I did what no other president was willing to do,” he said.
Casualty Claim
Trump cited a high death toll from an earlier Iranian crackdown but did not provide a source for the figure.
Closing Message
Trump ended his address in under 20 minutes with a message to US forces.
“When it's all over, the United States will be safer, stronger, more prosperous,” he said.
Markets reacted negatively to the speech, with oil and equities remaining volatile as investors assessed the balance between escalation risks and the prospect of a near-term end to the conflict.
Catch all the live updates on how markets are reacting here.
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