President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that US armed forces will “finish the job” in Iran shortly, stating that “core strategic objectives are nearing completion.” He made the declaration in his first nationally televised address since the conflict began over a month ago.

Trump's Address from the White House

Speaking from the Cross Hall of the White House on April 1, 2026, Trump defended the war, arguing that Washington’s objectives have been met or exceeded. He also indicated that Iran will continue to face attacks in the near term. “We’re going to hit them extremely hard over the next two or three weeks. We’re going to bring them back to the Stone Age, where they belong,” he stated.

Focus on Past Conflicts and Military Success

However, a significant portion of the nearly 20-minute address reiterated points made in recent weeks, offering few new details. Trump outlined a chronology of US involvement in past conflicts, noting the current war in Iran has lasted only 32 days, seemingly appealing for public patience. He referenced World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and Iraq.

Economic Impact and Global Markets

The speech’s impact on global financial markets was immediate, with oil prices rising more than 4% and Asian stocks falling following Trump’s comments regarding continued strong action against Iran. He claimed US military action had been “so powerful, so brilliant” that “one of the most powerful countries… is really no longer a threat,” even as Iran continued attacks against Israel and Gulf neighbors.

Nuclear Sites and Control

Trump also appeared to dismiss the possibility of entering Iran to secure enriched uranium. “The nuclear sites we hit with B-2 bombers have been hit so hard it will take months to get anywhere near nuclear dust,” he said. “And we have it under intense surveillance and satellite control. If we see them make any move, even an attempt to attack, we’ll hit them very hard with missiles again.”

Call for Resource Security

The President encouraged countries reliant on oil passing through the Strait of Hormuz to “gather some value, even belatedly” and “take it.” Earlier in the day, during a White House Easter lunch, Trump suggested the US could simply seize Iranian oil, but acknowledged a potential lack of public patience for such a move.

Controversial Remarks at Easter Lunch

At the Easter lunch, Trump stated, “We could just take their oil. But, you know, I’m not sure the people in our country have the patience for it, which is too bad.” He added, “They want to see it end. If we stayed there, I’d rather stay with the oil.” A video of these remarks was briefly posted online by the White House before being removed, and the administration did not respond to requests for comment regarding the video’s removal.