Trump Says Iran War Nearing Victory, Promises Intensified Strikes

(The White House)

WASHINGTON, Apr 2, 2026 (CNA) — President Donald Trump declared that the United States is “very close” to victory in its war against Iran, pledging that the next two to three weeks would bring “extremely hard” strikes designed to cripple the country’s military and infrastructure.

Speaking from the White House, Trump reiterated that the US aims to dismantle Iran’s armed forces, halt its support for regional militias, and prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons — though international observers maintain that Iran was not on the verge of developing a bomb.

Trump boasted that Israel’s initial strikes had eliminated much of Iran’s leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Yet Iran has retaliated by seizing control of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil passageway, driving global energy prices higher and straining US consumer confidence.

Gasoline prices have surged, stock markets have tumbled, and Trump’s approval ratings have dropped sharply. Critics, including Democratic Senator Chris Murphy, argued that the president’s speech offered little clarity on whether the conflict is escalating or winding down.

Trump warned that if Iran refuses to negotiate, the US would target its energy infrastructure, threatening to “bring them back to the Stone Ages.” Such actions, however, could be considered violations of international law.

While Trump claimed Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian was seeking a ceasefire, Tehran quickly denied this, accusing Washington of making “irrational” demands. Meanwhile, European allies remain reluctant to support the war, leaving Gulf states exposed to Iranian retaliation.

Source: CNA News