Trump Declares Iran No Longer a Threat

In a Wednesday address, President Donald Trump declared that Iran no longer poses a threat to the U.S. and that the ongoing conflict is 'nearing completion.' This statement comes as the conflict enters its fifth week, prompting questions about the war’s objectives and its eventual outcome.

Claims of Regime Change and Negotiations

President Trump has repeatedly emphasized the success of U.S. operations, claiming the destruction of Iranian military capabilities and asserting that 'complete regime change' has been achieved with the death of key Iranian leaders, including former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. He indicated that negotiations are underway with what he described as 'more moderate' and 'much more reasonable' Iranian leaders.

Key Figures in Discussions

Trump specifically cited Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, a former IRGC commander, as a key figure in these discussions. Ghalibaf is also reportedly connected to Mojtaba Khamenei, the new supreme leader.

Contradictory Situation on the Ground

Despite Trump’s assertions, Iran continues to launch missiles and drones targeting neighboring countries and Israel on a daily basis. The war has also raised concerns about economic repercussions, particularly the surge in oil and gas prices due to Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil supplies, and the increased cost for jet fuel.

Timeline for Ending the Conflict

The Trump administration faces scrutiny regarding the timeline for ending the war. While Trump suggested it could conclude within two to three weeks, he also stated that a deal with Iran is not a prerequisite for the cessation of U.S. military operations. 'When we feel that they are for a long period of time put into the stone ages and they won't be able to come up with a nuclear weapon, then we’ll leave,' Trump told reporters.

Conflicting Reports on Peace Plan Response

Iran's response to a U.S. proposed 15-point peace plan has been subject to conflicting accounts. State-controlled Press TV reported Iranian demands including an end to attacks, guarantees against future conflict, and compensation for war damages. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi denied any formal response or specific demands from Tehran, emphasizing a lack of trust in negotiations with the U.S.

Iranian President's Stance

Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed a willingness to end the conflict if the reported Iranian conditions were met, indicating a potentially more conciliatory stance.

Trump's Rhetoric and Actions

Trump's rhetoric, however, suggests a more aggressive approach. He advised countries unable to access jet fuel due to the Strait of Hormuz blockade to 'buy from the U.S.' and 'build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT.'

Origins and Casualties of the Conflict

The conflict commenced on February 28th with extensive U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iranian military and governmental targets, following weeks of discussions regarding the Iranian nuclear program. Trump justified the operation as a means to 'defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime,' and urged the Iranian populace to overthrow the government.

Casualty Reports

Iran responded with missile and drone attacks. The Pentagon reports 13 U.S. service members have been killed and 348 wounded. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reports at least 3,519 Iranian deaths, figures that ABC News has not independently verified.

The situation remains volatile, and the path to peace is uncertain, amidst conflicting reports and shifting statements from both sides.