US President Donald Trump on Thursday marked one month since the launch of Operation Epic Fury against Iran, asserting that American military strikes have severely weakened Tehran’s capabilities and that the campaign is close to achieving its key objectives. In a national address outlining the next phase, he said US forces would intensify operations over the coming two to three weeks, warning of further heavy strikes, including potential targeting of power infrastructure.
He also called on partner nations to step up and help secure the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as a crucial route currently under Iran’s influence.
Claims Of Battlefield Gains
Trump declared that Iran’s naval and air strength had been largely neutralised and claimed significant damage to its military leadership and command systems, particularly within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. He said Iran’s ability to deploy missiles and drones had been sharply reduced, and that weapons facilities and launch systems were being destroyed.
Framing the campaign as a success, he said US adversaries were weakening while America was gaining ground.
‘Objectives Nearing Completion’
The US president stated that American forces are steadily dismantling Iran’s capacity to threaten US interests or project power beyond its borders. He said core strategic goals are close to being fulfilled and pledged to conclude the operation swiftly.
Trump added that Washington would continue efforts to shield its allies in the Middle East from the fallout of the conflict, while promising that battlefield targets would be met in the near term.
Justification For Military Action
Explaining the rationale behind the offensive, Trump described the campaign as essential for US and global security. He cited past attacks attributed to Iran and its allied groups, and criticised the country’s leadership, accusing it of repression and violence against its own citizens.
He reiterated his long-standing position that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons, arguing that its leadership poses a serious threat if armed with such capabilities.
Trump also referenced earlier actions taken during his presidency, including the killing of Qasem Soleimani and his decision to withdraw from the nuclear agreement negotiated under Barack Obama. He said these steps reflected a tougher approach compared to previous administrations.
Concerns Over Nuclear Programme
The president claimed that Iran continues to advance its nuclear ambitions and is rapidly improving its missile technology. He warned that the country is close to acquiring nuclear weapons capability, calling such a scenario unacceptable and a major global risk.
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