President Donald Trump declared Wednesday night that U.S. military operations against Iran are nearing completion, characterizing the campaign as a “historic and decisive victory.” He suggested a potential withdrawal of troops within “two to three weeks.”

Operation Epic Fury: Claims of Decisive Victory

Trump claimed the offensive, dubbed “Operation Epic Fury,” has “decimated” Tehran’s military and nuclear ambitions. He stated Iran’s navy has been “destroyed,” its air force “in ruins,” and its missile capabilities largely neutralized. U.S. forces, he asserted, have crippled Iran’s defense infrastructure, dismantled weapons production, and eliminated key leaders, including figures connected to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Shifting Leadership and Potential Negotiations

While maintaining that regime change wasn’t an official goal, Trump claimed Iran’s leadership has effectively been replaced, describing the new leadership as “less radical.” He indicated a willingness to negotiate, but warned of further escalation if an agreement isn’t reached. Trump also acknowledged support from allies like Israel and Gulf nations, urging other countries to secure global oil routes.

Nuclear Deal 'Irrelevant,' Ceasefire Claims

Prior to his address, Trump suggested a new nuclear agreement with Iran is no longer essential, citing the degradation of Iran’s capabilities. “Iran doesn’t have to make a deal,” he said, describing the current government as “much more accessible.” He added that a deal is “possible” because Iran “want[s] to make a deal.”

Later on Wednesday, Trump claimed Iran’s new leadership requested a ceasefire, contingent on the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He announced this claim on Truth Social, describing the leadership as “much less radicalized.”

Iranian Rejection of Claims

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, refuted Trump’s ceasefire claim as “false and baseless,” according to Iranian state television. Iran’s foreign minister stated the country is prepared for “at least six months” of war and denied any ongoing negotiations with the U.S. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, vowed continued support for anti-Israeli forces.

NATO Criticism and Regional Tensions

Trump also escalated his criticism of NATO, suggesting he is considering withdrawing from the alliance due to its limited involvement in the Iran conflict. He described NATO as a “paper tiger.”

The conflict has led to increased global economic concerns, with Iran effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz. Recent attacks include an Iranian strike on an oil tanker off the coast of Qatar and a targeting of Kuwait’s airport. Airstrikes have also battered Tehran, including one that appeared to hit the former U.S. Embassy compound.