War in Iran 'Approaching Conclusion' — But Will Not End Until U.S. Achieves Goals, Says Trump

U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the nation on April 1, announcing that the ongoing war in Iran is approaching its conclusion. However, he emphasized that military operations would persist until the United States meets its strategic goals. This speech marks Trump's first significant statement on the conflict since coordinated strikes by the U.S. and Israel commenced against Tehran on February 28.

In his address, Trump reiterated the stated objectives of the operation, which include the destruction of Iran's naval fleet, the dismantling of the country's military-industrial base, depriving Iran of the means to finance terrorist groups in the region, and preventing the development of nuclear weapons. "I am pleased to report that these key strategic objectives are nearing completion," Trump stated.

The President underscored that the war would not conclude until these goals are achieved. "We are on the right path to complete all of America's military objectives very soon, very soon," he remarked. "We will be striking them very hard over the next two to three weeks. We will return them to the Stone Age, where they belong."

In his speech, Trump also reiterated his justifications for the U.S. attack on Iran, praising the achievements of American military forces and highlighting the United States' energy independence and economic strength. While some feared that Trump might seize the opportunity to threaten a U.S. withdrawal from NATO, he did not mention the alliance in his remarks. However, he did urge other nations, apart from the U.S., to take responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump claimed that the war would end "very soon," concluding within two to three weeks. He outlined plans to target the country's power plants and return Iran "back to the Stone Age." The President also reassured the American public that the spike in gas prices caused by the war would be temporary.

Since the U.S. and Israel began coordinated strikes against Iran on February 28, the war has expanded throughout the Middle East, subjecting military and civilian infrastructure in the region to attacks. Tehran has responded with drone and missile strikes against Israel and neighboring countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

The initial wave of strikes by the U.S. and Israel resulted in the deaths of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other high-ranking officials; however, the hardline Iranian regime remains intact. Khamenei was succeeded by his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, and the country's leadership has shown no interest in negotiating with the U.S.

Earlier on April 1, Trump stated that the new Iranian leader had requested a ceasefire, but this information was denied in Tehran. Assessments from U.S. intelligence also indicate that Iran does not believe Trump is interested in diplomacy, as reported by the New York Times.

Unnamed U.S. officials informed the Washington Post that the Pentagon is developing plans for possible ground operations that, if approved by Trump, could signal further escalation. However, the war in Iran also poses a threat to Trump domestically: the conflict has not only disrupted global energy markets but has also led to a sharp decline in Trump's approval ratings within the country.

Overall, the war in Iran is unpopular, with a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted from March 27 to 29 showing that 60% of Americans oppose the war, while only 35% support it. According to a Fox News poll conducted from March 20 to 23, 59% of U.S. voters disapprove of Trump's performance as president — the lowest ratings of his term.

On March 29, thousands took to the streets in cities across the U.S., joining anti-Trump demonstrations titled "No Kings," which highlighted the war in Iran. The U.S. has also been involved in deadly strikes against civilians, including a missile strike on a girls' school in Iran that resulted in the deaths of over 175 people, mostly children. An investigation by the NYT established that the U.S. struck the school with a Tomahawk cruise missile due to a targeting error.

The response to the war has intensified concerns that Republicans may lose control of Congress in the midterm elections in November 2026, further threatening Trump's power. The April 1 speech coincided with Trump's statement that he is seriously considering a U.S. withdrawal from NATO due to allies' refusal to join the war against Iran.

When asked by the Telegraph if he would consider U.S. membership in the alliance after the war, Trump replied, "Oh, yes, I would say that question is not up for discussion. I have never been inclined toward NATO."

The ongoing U.S. war with Iran, which has lasted for over a month, has led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz — a critical waterway through which nearly 20% of the world's oil passes — and has caused a global surge in fuel prices. Trump emphasized in his speech that the U.S. does not rely on oil transported through the strait, although gas prices across the country have risen. He also promised that the strait would reopen after the war, although it remains unclear how this will occur.

"When this conflict ends, the strait will simply open up naturally," he said. Trump called on other nations to ensure the security of the strait, although he did not specify which ones.

"Countries of the world that receive oil through the Strait of Hormuz must take care of this passage; they must value it, they must seize it and appreciate it," Trump stated. "They can do this easily. We will help, but they must take responsibility for securing the oil on which they are so dependent. So for those countries that cannot obtain fuel, many of which refuse to participate in the elimination of Iran ... I have a suggestion. First, buy oil from the United States of America."