U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that Iran will face intensified military strikes over the next two to three weeks, even as he claimed that key objectives of the ongoing conflict are close to being achieved.
In a national address from the White House, Trump said the joint U.S.-Israeli campaign, which began in late February, is nearing completion. He maintained that significant progress has been made and assured Americans that the operation is on track to deliver its intended outcomes.
Despite this, the U.S. leader stressed that further military action remains necessary, stating that Iran would be hit “extremely hard” in the coming weeks. He also reassured regional allies, including Israel and Gulf states, that Washington would continue to protect them from ongoing Iranian missile and drone attacks.
Trump signalled that diplomatic engagement could still be an option, noting that Iran’s new leadership appears more open to negotiations than before. However, he warned that if talks fail, the United States is prepared to target critical infrastructure, including Iran’s power facilities.
The conflict has already had global economic implications, particularly in the energy sector. Oil prices rose sharply after tensions escalated around the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments. Iran has threatened to keep the strategic waterway closed, further heightening concerns in international markets.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials rejected U.S. calls for a ceasefire, describing Washington’s conditions as unrealistic. They confirmed that messages had been exchanged through intermediaries but ruled out direct negotiations for now.
Hostilities have continued across the region, with Iran launching fresh missile and drone attacks targeting Israeli cities and U.S. military bases in the Gulf. In response, Israeli defence systems have been activated to intercept incoming threats.
As the conflict intensifies, both sides have signalled a willingness to continue military operations, raising fears of a prolonged crisis with wider regional and global consequences.
