Conflict Enters Fifth Week

President Donald Trump addressed the nation from the White House on April 1, 2026, providing an update on the ongoing conflict with Iran. The address came as the war entered its fifth week, following initial strikes on February 28th.

Initial Strikes and Leadership Changes

President Trump announced “major combat operations” against Iran, involving joint U.S.-Israeli strikes targeting military and government sites. These strikes resulted in the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, subsequently chosen as his successor.

Iran's Response and Regional Impact

Iran has retaliated with missile and drone attacks directed at Israel, U.S. bases in the region, and several Gulf nations. Additionally, Iran is attempting to disrupt shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

Israel's Operations

Expanding Military Campaign

Israel is intensifying its ongoing campaign against the Iran-backed Hezbollah militia in Lebanon. Ground operations in southern Lebanon are also being expanded.

Trump Promises Further Action

President Trump stated that the U.S. will hit Iran “extremely hard” over the next two weeks. He reiterated points made since the conflict began, offering limited new details regarding the operation’s timeline or ultimate conclusion.

Strait of Hormuz Blockade and US Response

Addressing the trade disruptions caused by the partial blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, President Trump offered two suggestions to affected countries. He suggested purchasing oil from the U.S. and “build up some delayed courage” to “protect” the vital passageway themselves.

Assessment of Progress

“Iran has been essentially decimated. The hard part is done, so it should be easy,” President Trump declared during his address. He also predicted that the Strait of Hormuz would “just open up naturally” once the conflict concludes.

Core Objectives Nearing Completion

President Trump affirmed that the U.S.’s “core strategic objectives” in Iran are “nearing completion.” He expressed confidence in a swift resolution, stating, “We are going to finish the job. And we’re going to finish it very fast. We’re getting very close.”