On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the conflict with Iran is "virtually over," emphasizing that Iran's military capabilities have been significantly weakened by the U.S.-led strikes.
In a phone interview with CBS News, Trump stated that the offensive has dismantled much of Iran's military infrastructure, noting that the conflict is progressing more swiftly than initially anticipated.
"I believe the war is practically over," Trump remarked while speaking from his golf club in Doral, Florida.
The president highlighted the severe reduction in Iran's military strength.
"They lack a navy, they have no communications, their air force is non-existent. Their missiles are scattered, and drones are being destroyed everywhere," he declared.
According to the U.S. military, as reported by CBS News, American forces have targeted over 3,000 sites in Iran during the first week of operations.
Trump further warned that Tehran would face dire consequences if it attempted to disrupt the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a crucial channel for nearly 20% of the world's oil supply.
"It will be the end of that country if they do anything wrong," the president cautioned.
Meanwhile, the markets responded to Trump's statements. As reported by El País, Wall Street saw gains after Trump's indication that the conflict might be drawing to a close, while oil prices dropped after nearing $120 overnight.
The outlet also reported that Trump had a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday, where they discussed the situation in Iran and other international issues.
The conflict was ignited by a series of U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, escalating tensions in the Middle East and causing significant volatility in global energy markets.
Despite Trump's assertion that the conflict is moving faster than expected, the Department of Defense posted on social media the same day, stating that military operations are ongoing.
On Monday, Trump criticized the choice of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's new supreme leader amid the ongoing military conflict involving Tehran, Washington, and Israel.
In comments to NBC, as reported by EFE, Trump questioned the Iranian leadership's decision to appoint the son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to lead the country.
Key Insights on the Iran Conflict
What did Trump claim about Iran's military capabilities?
Trump asserted that Iran's military capabilities have been severely diminished, with no navy, communications, or air force, and scattered missiles and destroyed drones.
How have the markets reacted to Trump's statements on Iran?
Following Trump's comments about the potential resolution of the conflict, Wall Street experienced gains, and oil prices fell after previously nearing $120.
What was discussed in Trump's conversation with Vladimir Putin?
Trump and Putin discussed the situation in Iran along with other international matters during their phone call.