The President of the United States, Donald Trump, has reiterated a timeline of “two to three weeks” to bring the ongoing conflict involving Iran to an end.
Trump made the statement on Wednesday while defending his decision to engage in military action, delivering his first national address since the onset of the conflict. He sought to justify the cost of the war for both United States and the global community, while maintaining that an end to hostilities is within reach.
According to the president, Iran has been significantly weakened, with the most difficult phase of the conflict already over. However, he indicated that the United States would intensify its strikes over the next two to three weeks.
“This evening, I am pleased to announce that these fundamental strategic goals are approaching fulfillment … Over the past four weeks, our military forces have achieved rapid, decisive, and overwhelming victories on the battlefield, victories that few have ever witnessed before,” Trump told Americans.
He also urged nations that import oil through the Strait of Hormuz to show “courage” and take responsibility for securing the route, stressing that Washington would not allow its Middle Eastern allies to suffer harm.
“The nations of the world that … import oil through the Hormuz Strait must safeguard that passage,” Trump said. “Simply take it, protect it, and utilize it for your own benefit.”
Trump further expressed appreciation to allied countries in the Middle East, including Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Bahrain, stating, “They have been exceptional, and we will ensure they are not harmed or allowed to fail in any manner, shape, or form.”
