In a recent interview with CBS News, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the conflict with Iran is nearing its conclusion. He suggested that the United States is considering taking control of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage for approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply.
During the March 9 interview, conducted from his golf club in Doral, Florida, Trump asserted, “I think the war is almost over.” He claimed that Iran has lost its naval capabilities, air force, and communication systems, and that its missile and drone assets have been significantly damaged. Trump emphasized that the U.S. is ahead of schedule in its military operations against Iran.
Trump also addressed the recent leadership change in Iran, where Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei succeeded his father as the Supreme Leader. He remarked, “I have no message for him,” indicating that he views a different individual as Iran’s leader.
Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Trump warned Iran that any hostile actions would lead to severe consequences. He stated that the U.S. has options to exert control over the strait, which has seen disruptions in commercial shipping.
Military Operations Against Iran
On February 28, Israel launched attacks on Tehran, prompting Trump to declare that the U.S. military had initiated a significant operation against Iran aimed at neutralizing perceived threats from the Iranian regime. He accused Iran of funding and training militant groups in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Palestine.
The objective of the U.S. military campaign, according to Trump, is to dismantle Iran’s missile industry and naval forces, thereby preventing any potential destabilization of global security.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has reported launching missiles and drones toward Israel and attacking U.S. military bases in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
In response to escalating tensions, French President Emmanuel Macron called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council. The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring regional security and stability in the Middle East.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed support for giving the Iranian people a chance to rid themselves of what he termed a “terrorist regime,” aiming to guarantee safety for those affected by Iranian aggression.
On March 1, the IRGC announced the launch of what it described as the most destructive offensive operation in the history of the Islamic Republic against Israel and U.S. bases. Trump urged the Iranian leadership to abandon these plans, threatening a “very strong response” if they did not comply.
On March 2, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that the next phase of military operations against Iran would be even more devastating. By March 6, Trump called for a complete overhaul of Iran’s leadership, suggesting he had potential candidates for a more favorable leader.
On March 8, Iran’s Assembly of Experts appointed Mojtaba Khamenei as the third Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei. Trump declined to comment on this appointment, stating simply, “We’ll see what happens,” while previously suggesting that the new leader would not last long without support from the White House.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the conflict with Iran is nearing an end, while tensions escalate following military actions and a leadership change in Iran. Trump indicated potential U.S. control over the crucial Strait of Hormuz and warned of severe consequences for any Iranian aggression.