U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that the ongoing U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran could conclude within weeks, while simultaneously warning of intensified attacks in the near term.
In a prime-time address from the White House, Trump described the operation as a “decisive and overwhelming victory,” stating that the United States was “very close” to finishing the mission.
“We are going to hit them extremely hard over the next two to three weeks,” Trump said, emphasizing that military pressure would increase before any resolution is reached. He added that discussions are ongoing but did not outline any clear diplomatic framework.
The president claimed that Iran’s military capabilities have been significantly weakened, asserting that its missile and drone programs have been “dramatically curtailed” and that weapons production facilities have been destroyed. However, he acknowledged that Iran continues to carry out retaliatory strikes, albeit at a reduced capacity.
Trump also said that nuclear facilities had been targeted again in recent days, suggesting that the extent of the damage would take months to fully assess. Reiterating a long-standing position, he stressed that Iran would not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons.
Referring to past U.S. policy, Trump criticized the 2015 nuclear agreement, arguing that Israel’s security would have been at risk had the deal remained in place.
In a notable remark, Trump denied that regime change was an official objective but suggested that significant leadership changes had already occurred in Iran. “Regime change was not our goal, but it has effectively happened,” he said.
Addressing concerns over global energy security, Trump commented on the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes. He said the waterway would “open up naturally” and urged energy-dependent nations to take greater responsibility for its security.
Oil markets reacted during the speech, with prices rising by more than 3 percent by its conclusion, according to international media reports. Asian markets, however, showed a more muted initial response.
Seeking to reassure the American public, Trump compared the current conflict to previous wars, noting its relatively short duration so far. He emphasized that the operation has lasted just over a month and framed it as a strategic investment in long-term security.
Despite the confident tone, the address offered no new policy announcements. Analysts note that the absence of a clear diplomatic path, combined with plans for intensified military action, leaves uncertainty over whether the conflict is truly nearing its end or entering a more volatile phase.