Iran Conflict: Trump Claims Victory, Iran Responds

The conflict between the United States and Iran continues to escalate, with President Donald Trump claiming substantial military victories and Iran vowing to withstand any aggression. The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic channels open but no direct negotiations currently underway.

Trump Announces Military Successes

Operation Epic Fury Progress

President Trump stated on Wednesday night that Operation Epic Fury, launched one month ago, has “dramatically curtailed” Iran’s ability to launch missiles and drones. He further claimed that Iran’s “navy is gone” and its “air force is in ruins,” alleging that Iranian leaders are “now dead.”

Prior to his address, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported on X (formerly Twitter) that Operation Epic Fury has struck over 12,300 targets and damaged or destroyed 155 Iranian vessels.

Shifting Responsibility for Strait of Hormuz

President Trump signaled a potential shift in responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil and shipping. He suggested that nations dependent on the Strait should “get your own oil,” expressing frustration with allies he believes have not adequately supported the U.S. effort.

Iran’s Response and Accusations

Pezeshkian’s Message to the American People

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the American people, asserting that Iran will endure any aggression from the U.S. He stated, “Confrontation and engagement between Iran and the U.S. are accessible,” and emphasized that “Iran has outlasted many aggressors.”

Pezeshkian also accused the U.S. of being manipulated by Israel, claiming the U.S. entered the conflict as “a proxy for Israel.”

Denial of Ceasefire Request

Iran has denied claims made by President Trump that the new Iranian president requested a ceasefire. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei called the claim “false and baseless,” according to Iranian state television. The Revolutionary Guard also affirmed their control over the Strait of Hormuz.

Diplomatic Efforts and International Reactions

Communication Channels Remain Open

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed to Al Jazeera that they have received messages from U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, but stated that no direct negotiations are currently taking place.

International Discussions

Finnish President Alexander Stubb spoke with President Trump on Wednesday, discussing NATO, Ukraine, and Iran. Stubb expressed the importance of seeking solutions to these problems collaboratively.

Economic Impact

Rising Gas Prices

The ongoing conflict has driven up U.S. gas prices, surpassing an average of $4 per gallon for the first time since 2022. This increase mirrors a similar surge following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Global oil prices have also risen, with Brent crude hovering around $107 a barrel, a more than 45% increase since the conflict began on February 28.

Thousands of additional U.S. troops, including those from the 82nd Airborne Division and the USS George H.W. Bush carrier strike group, are being deployed to the Middle East.