Trump Signals Potential End to US Military Operations Against Iran

Former US President Donald Trump has declared that the United States is nearing its strategic objectives in the Middle East and could soon wind down its military campaign against Iran.

Trump made the announcement on his social media platform, Truth Social. "We are very close to achieving our goals and are considering ending our large-scale military efforts in the Middle East against Iran's terrorist regime," he stated.

The former president outlined a series of key goals that he claims have been met or are within reach. These include the complete destruction of Iran's missile capabilities—including launchers—the crippling of its defense industry, and the elimination of its naval and air forces along with anti-aircraft weaponry.

He emphasized two long-term strategic pillars: preventing Iran from ever acquiring nuclear weapons while maintaining a US posture for a swift and powerful response if necessary, and providing the highest level of protection for American allies in the region. He specifically named Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and others.

"Never allow Iran to get close to nuclear armament, and always remain in a position for the US to respond quickly and powerfully if such a situation arises," Trump wrote.

Shifting focus to regional security, Trump indicated that responsibility for safeguarding the vital Strait of Hormuz should fall to other nations that use it. "The United States does not do this," he added.

He offered conditional support, stating, "If asked, we will help these countries with protecting the Strait of Hormuz, but once the Iranian threat is eliminated, it will not be necessary. Importantly, for them it will be an easy military operation."