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3. Trump Says U.S. ‘Close to Finishing the Job’ in Iran War, Says More Strikes Ahead

Israel said it came under Iranian missile fire on Thursday after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to bomb the Islamic republic into the "Stone Ages" with heavy strikes in the next two to three weeks.

In a speech from the White House, Trump sought to reassure war-weary Americans that the military campaign that began on February 28 was coming to an end, vowing "extremely hard" strikes against Iran. "Thanks to the progress we've made, I can say tonight that we are on track to complete all of America's military objectives shortly, very shortly," Trump said.

The war's "core strategic objectives are nearing completion", he said, warning however that "over the next two to three weeks, we are going to bring them back to the Stone Ages, where they belong".

Between Military Pressure and Diplomatic Uncertainty

Despite Trump’s optimism, U.S. intelligence assessments paint a more complex picture.

According to multiple American officials cited in recent reports, U.S. intelligence agencies believe Iran is not currently engaging seriously in negotiations, even as diplomatic channels remain open through intermediaries.

Iranian officials, for their part, have denied the existence of direct talks with Washington, while accusing the United States of making “maximalist” demands.

At the same time, Tehran has reportedly signaled that any agreement would require guarantees of a permanent ceasefire, highlighting the gap that still separates the two sides.

Strait of Hormuz Crisis Deepens

In his speech Trump called for countries that receive oil through the Strait of Hormuz to show "courage" and seize the key waterway.

The conflict continues to center on the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has effectively restricted maritime traffic, disrupting global energy flows. Trump said Iran had allowed a limited number of oil tankers to pass as a "gesture" but warned that the United States retains the capability to reopen the waterway by force if necessary.

“We could close it up in two minutes,” he said, while also suggesting that securing the strait should not be “America’s job” alone.

In parallel, a British-led initiative is bringing together around 36 countries to explore diplomatic and political options to restore freedom of navigation, underscoring the growing international concern over the disruption.

Escalation Options Still on the Table

Even as he spoke of an approaching end to the conflict, Trump outlined additional military options that could be deployed if negotiations fail.

He warned that the United States could target Iran’s energy infrastructure, including power plants and oil facilities, in coordinated strikes. The president also reiterated earlier suggestions that Washington could consider seizing strategic assets such as Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export terminal, though no final decision has been announced.

At the same time, U.S. forces continue to deploy additional troops to the region, signaling preparations for potential escalation, including the possibility of ground operations.