Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that the United States would intensify its military actions against Iran over the next two to three weeks, asserting that the core strategic objectives in the ongoing conflict are nearing completion.
According to Yonhap News Agency, in a nationwide televised address from the White House, Trump reiterated his expectation for countries dependent on the Strait of Hormuz for energy imports to assume responsibility for the waterway, which has been significantly impacted by Iran's retaliatory actions. This statement comes as the Trump administration aims to withdraw from Middle Eastern conflicts amidst rising concerns over the war's influence on oil prices, inflation, and the global economy-factors that could sway voter sentiment in the upcoming U.S. midterm elections in November.
Trump emphasized the severity of the upcoming actions, stating, "We are going to hit them extremely hard over the next two to three weeks," and further underlined the progress of the U.S. military, which is "on track" to fulfill its military objectives soon. The military campaign, known as "Operation Epic Fury," aims to dismantle Iran's missile program, navy, and air force, and to prevent the development of nuclear weapons. Initiated in late February, the campaign is reportedly nearing its strategic goals.
In his address, Trump also cautioned Iranian negotiators about the consequences of not reaching a deal, threatening severe strikes on Iran's infrastructure, including its electric generating plants, if negotiations fail. Despite Iran's oil facilities being untouched thus far, Trump mentioned the potential to target them, further increasing the pressure on Iran.
Earlier, Trump mentioned on Truth Social that Iran's "new regime" president had sought a ceasefire, a claim quickly refuted by an Iranian foreign ministry official as "false and baseless." He highlighted the swift victories achieved by the U.S. forces and the significant progress in the campaign since February.
Trump reiterated his call for nations reliant on the Strait of Hormuz to secure the passage themselves, underscoring that the U.S. does not rely on the strait for oil imports and will not do so in the future. He urged these countries to take proactive measures to protect their oil supplies, offering U.S. support but insisting they take the lead.
In closing, Trump expressed confidence that once the conflict concludes, the strait would naturally reopen, allowing for the resumption of oil flow.