U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the nation Wednesday night, claiming that the U.S. military had “nearly accomplished” its objectives in Iran, but did not provide a clear timeline for ending the ongoing conflict. In a forceful statement, Trump vowed to bomb Iran back into the “Stone Ages” if negotiations fail.
Speaking from the White House in his first primetime address since the war began on February 28, Trump said the U.S. had destroyed Iran’s navy and air force, and crippled its ballistic missile and nuclear programs. However, he offered no detailed plan for winding down the fifth-week-long conflict, only promising that the U.S. would finish the job “very fast.”
Trump downplayed unresolved issues, including Iran’s enriched uranium and control of the Strait of Hormuz—a crucial oil shipping route that Iran has effectively closed. He said the strait would reopen “naturally” once the war ends.
Markets reacted immediately: stocks fell, the dollar strengthened, and oil prices rose, reflecting fears the conflict may continue for an extended period.
Trump also signaled continued military action over the next two to three weeks, threatening to target Iran’s electricity and oil infrastructure if new leaders do not negotiate satisfactorily. “We’re going to bring them back to the Stone Ages where they belong,” he said.
Despite public concern over rising gasoline prices, Trump insisted that the increases were primarily Iran’s fault and urged Gulf oil-dependent nations to take the lead in securing the strait, with U.S. support.
The president’s speech did not mention NATO, despite previous comments suggesting he would address the alliance. Meanwhile, a recent Reuters/Ipsos survey found 60% of Americans disapprove of the war, with 66% favoring a swift end to U.S. involvement.
Trump’s next moves remain uncertain. Administration officials have hinted at bold operations to seize Iran’s uranium stockpiles and strategic territories, while thousands of additional troops are en route to the Gulf, keeping military options open. The president urged Americans to keep the conflict in perspective, citing longer U.S. involvement in past wars like Iraq, Vietnam, and Korea.