Washington: The U.S. military operation against Iran will conclude when President Donald Trump determines that the military objectives have been achieved and Iran is in a state of "unconditional surrender," regardless of Tehran's acknowledgment, the White House announced on Tuesday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt conveyed during a press briefing that the U.S. military is developing additional strategies to maintain open passage through the Strait of Hormuz. This statement comes amid rising concerns about increases in oil and gas prices, which Leavitt reassured as being "temporary." The operation, termed "Operation Epic Fury," is under scrutiny as questions about its duration arise, particularly with potential implications for oil prices ahead of November's midterm elections.

Leavitt emphasized that the end of operations will be determined by the President's assessment that military goals have been fully realized, including Iran's full and unconditional surrender. The U.S. aims to dismantle Iran's ballistic missile capabilities, neutralize its Navy, disrupt its nuclear armament pathways, and weaken Iran-supported militia groups in the area.

She clarified President Trump's stance on Iran's "unconditional surrender," explaining that it implies a cessation of threats backed by ballistic missile arsenals which facilitate nuclear bomb development. The President will consider Iran in a state of unconditional surrender when it no longer poses a direct threat to the U.S. and its allies.

On the issue of fluctuating oil prices, Leavitt addressed concerns, noting that the surge to nearly US$120 per barrel earlier in the week is a temporary situation. She assured that once Operation Epic Fury's national security objectives are met, gas prices in the U.S. are expected to decrease significantly, potentially dropping below pre-operation levels.

Leavitt also mentioned that the U.S. military is evaluating various strategies to ensure uninterrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. While she refrained from detailing these strategies, she noted the option of the U.S. Navy escorting oil tankers through the strait, though this has not yet been executed.

In clarifying previous reports, Leavitt confirmed that no U.S. Navy escorted tanker operations have taken place despite earlier claims by Energy Secretary Chris Wright, which were later retracted. She reiterated that such measures remain available and will be employed if deemed necessary by the President.