President Donald Trump delivered an address to the nation on Wednesday night, providing an update on the continuing conflict with Iran. The speech came as questions linger about the war’s future and potential resolution.

Claims of Regime Change and Negotiations

Trump stated that the U.S. has achieved “complete regime change” in Iran, citing the death of longtime Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other political leaders. He indicated that his administration is currently engaged in negotiations with Iranian leaders he described as “more moderate” and “much more reasonable.”

Specifically, Trump mentioned Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s hardline Parliament Speaker, as being involved in these discussions. Ghalibaf, a former commander in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has a history of suppressing protests and facing corruption allegations.

Ghalibaf's Background and Connections

Ghalibaf is reportedly close to Mojtaba Khamenei, the current supreme leader of Iran and son of the late Ali Khamenei, who was killed in February. This connection highlights the shifting power dynamics within the Iranian government.

Ongoing Conflict and Regional Impact

Despite the claimed progress, Iran continues to launch missile and drone attacks on neighboring Gulf countries and Israel on a daily basis, even a month into the conflict. The war has also significantly impacted the global economy.

Oil and gas prices have surged, reaching an average of $4 a gallon, as Iran maintains control over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil supply. This control affects numerous nations reliant on the strait for fuel.

Timeline and Conditions for Withdrawal

President Trump suggested on Tuesday that the war could conclude in two to three weeks. However, he emphasized that a formal deal with Iran is not a prerequisite for ending 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 stated. “Whether we have a deal or not, it’s irrelevant.”

Conflicting Reports on Peace Proposals

Iran reportedly responded to a 15-point peace plan proposed by the U.S. last week with its own stipulations. These included an end to attacks and assassinations, guarantees against future conflict, and compensation for war-related damages.

However, Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi denied responding to the U.S. proposal or presenting a list of demands. President Masoud Pezeshkian, in a call with a European official, indicated a willingness to end the conflict if Iran’s conditions were met.

Araghchi, speaking to Al Jazeera, expressed skepticism about negotiations, stating, “We do not have any faith that negotiations with the U.S. will yield any results. The trust level is at zero.”

Trump's Stance on Strait of Hormuz

Trump took to social media to address countries affected by disruptions to fuel supplies through the Strait of Hormuz, particularly the United Kingdom. He suggested they either purchase fuel from the U.S. or “just TAKE IT,” urging them to assert control over the vital waterway.

Origins and Casualties of the Conflict

The U.S. and Israel initiated large-scale strikes against Iran on February 28th, targeting military and government sites following weeks of negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program. Trump stated these operations aimed to “defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime.”

Iran retaliated with missile and drone strikes targeting Israel, U.S. military bases, and Gulf countries. As of Tuesday, thirteen U.S. service members have died, and 348 have been wounded. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reports at least 3,519 people in Iran have been killed due to the strikes, though ABC News has not independently verified these numbers.