Trump on Iran: US ‘Very Close’ to Objectives – & Other Global News
President Donald Trump stated Friday he has no interest in a ceasefire with Iran, even as his administration considers “winding down” military efforts in the region, according to statements released by the White House and a post on his Truth Social account.
“I don’t want to do a ceasefire,” Trump told reporters outside the White House before departing for Florida, as reported by CNBC. “You don’t do a ceasefire when you’re literally obliterating the other side.”
The comments came as the U.S.-Israeli military operation against Iran entered its fourth week, triggering a broader regional conflict and causing volatility in global markets. The conflict has spurred a rise in oil prices, exacerbated by Iran’s effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for international oil shipments.
Later Friday, Trump indicated a potential shift in strategy, writing on Truth Social that the U.S. Is “getting very close to meeting our objectives as we consider winding down our great Military efforts in the Middle East with respect to the Terrorist Regime of Iran.” He outlined five goals: destroying Iran’s missile arsenal, dismantling its defense industry, neutralizing its military forces, preventing nuclear weapon development, and safeguarding U.S. Allies in the region.
Despite Trump’s assertions of military success – claiming “We’ve knocked out their navy, their air force…From a military standpoint they’re finished” – reports suggest the Pentagon is preparing for a potential escalation. The Independent reported this week that the administration is weighing the deployment of thousands of additional troops to the Middle East, with the Wall Street Journal reporting that approximately 2,200 Marines are already en route to U.S. Central Command.
Trump too addressed the Strait of Hormuz, stating it “will have to be guarded and policed, as necessary, by other Nations who use it — The United States does not!” He added that the U.S. Would assist other countries in securing the waterway “if asked,” but asserted it “shouldn’t be necessary once Iran’s threat is eradicated.”
CBS News, a partner of the BBC, reported that U.S. Military officials are making detailed preparations for the possibility of deploying ground troops in Iran.