Trump says US war objectives in Iran ‘nearly complete’, warns of fresh strikes within weeks
United States (US) President Donald Trump has declared that the US is close to completing its military objectives in the ongoing conflict with Iran.
In a national address on Thursday (2 April), he said American forces had achieved “swift and overwhelming victories” over the past month under a campaign dubbed Operation Epic Fury.
Trump claimed Iran’s military capabilities — including its navy, air force, missile systems, and weapons production facilities — had been significantly weakened.
However, he warned that further strikes remain possible.
Threat of escalation if no deal reached
Trump said the US could launch additional attacks within the next two to three weeks if Iran does not agree to a deal.
Source: C-SPAN
“We’re going to bring them back to the Stone Ages where they belong,” he said, adding that power infrastructure could be targeted.
He noted that while the US has not targeted Iran’s oil industry, it remains an option if negotiations fail.
Closure of Strait of Hormuz not affecting US
Trump also addressed the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, a major global shipping route for oil.
Source: Al-Jazeera
He said the US does not rely on oil passing through the strait, and urged countries that depend on it to take the lead in protecting the route.
“We don’t need it. We haven’t needed it, and we don’t need it,” Trump emphasised.
“We will be helpful, but they should take the lead in protecting the oil that they so desperately depend on.”
Potential impact on Singapore and Asia
Disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz affect global oil supply, which can drive up fuel prices and inflation worldwide.
The situation could have wider implications for Asian economies, including Singapore, which depend heavily on imported energy.
Source: EDB Singapore
According to CNA, around 20 million barrels of oil pass through the strait each day, with about 80% destined for Asia.
Singapore’s Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan reportedly described the situation as an “Asian crisis”.
He warned that any disruption could lead to higher fuel and electricity costs, as well as broader economic pressures.
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Featured image adapted from C-SPAN.
