President Donald Trump said the United States is “very close” to achieving its objectives in the war against Iran and signalled a potential winding down of military operations, while urging other nations to take responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz.
In a post on Truth Social on Friday, Trump outlined what he described as major military gains against Iran. “We are 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 wrote.
He listed a series of achievements, including dismantling Iran’s military capabilities. “Completely degrading Iranian missile capability destroying Iran’s defense industrial base eliminating their Navy and Air Force,” Trump said, adding that the US would ensure Iran never comes close to developing nuclear weapons.
Trump also said Washington had secured its regional allies. “Protecting, at the highest level, our Middle Eastern allies, including Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, and others,” he wrote.
A key part of Trump’s message was a call for countries reliant on the Strait of Hormuz to take over its security, signalling a shift in US strategy.
“The Hormuz Strait will have to be guarded and policed, as necessary, by other nations who use it — The United States does not!” he said.
He added that while the US could assist, it should not be necessary. “If asked, we will help these countries in their Hormuz efforts, but it shouldn’t be necessary once Iran’s threat is eradicated.”
Describing the task as manageable, Trump said securing the vital shipping lane would be “an easy military operation” for those countries.