New Delhi (India) April 3:President Donald Trump addressed the nation for the first time since the conflict with Iran escalated on February 28. In his speech, he described the recent military actions as a "decisive" strike against Tehran’s military capabilities.
Trump expressed confidence that the United States would soon "finish the job" and mentioned that key goals were "close to being accomplished." These objectives include dismantling Iran’s missile network and naval forces, weakening its regional allies, and preventing it from developing nuclear weapons.
This address was significant as it marked Trump's first live update on the Middle East since the US-Israeli strikes that resulted in the deaths of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several high-ranking officials. 

Escalation Warning

Trump hinted at the possibility of further military escalation, suggesting that the US could "return Iran to the Stone Age." However, he also left room for diplomatic efforts, noting that his team had been in contact with unnamed Iranian individuals.
"From the beginning of Operation Epic Fury, we have said that we will continue until our objectives are fully achieved. Thanks to the progress we have made, I can say tonight that we are on track to complete all of America's military objectives shortly, very shortly," he said.

Short War Appreciation

Reflecting on the history of US military involvement in the region, Trump pointed out that while past conflicts have often dragged on for years, the current operation in Iran has only been underway for just over a month. He mentioned his willingness to negotiate with the Islamic Republic but also suggested that a deal might not be necessary to bring the war to an end.
"American involvement in World War 1 lasted one year, seven months and five days. World War 2 lasted for three years, eight months and 25 days. The Korean War lasted for three years, one month, and two days. The Vietnam War lasted for 19 years, five months, and 29 days. Iraq went on for eight years, eight months, and 28 days. We are in this military operation for 32 days. And the country has been eviscerated and essentially is really no longer a threat," he said.

Strait of Hormuz Crisis

The situation surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway through which about a fifth of the world’s oil passes, remains tense, as it has largely been closed since hostilities began. This has created significant economic repercussions, with oil prices skyrocketing—Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, has surged nearly 60% since the conflict started, and US gasoline prices have risen above $4 a gallon.