U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the United States will maintain a strong military posture against Iran for the next two to three weeks. He emphasized the success of current operations and asserted that Washington’s objectives have been met or surpassed.

Continued Military Action

“We are going to hit them extremely hard over the next two to three weeks,” Trump said. He further stated, “We’re going to bring them back to the Stone Ages, where they belong.” The President did not elaborate on potential negotiations with Iran or address the April 6 deadline he previously set regarding the Strait of Hormuz.

Economic Impact and Energy Prices

Trump’s remarks coincided with a significant increase in oil prices. Brent crude, the international benchmark, jumped 4.9% to $106.16 per barrel, while U.S. crude rose 4% to $104.15 a barrel. U.S. gas prices also surpassed $4 a gallon on Tuesday, marking the highest average since 2022.

Analysts predict these higher fuel costs will contribute to increased prices for groceries and other essential goods due to rising transportation and packaging expenses.

Global Reactions and Concerns

A New York-based think tank, the Soufan Center, suggested Trump’s speech indicated a willingness to potentially leave the security of the Strait of Hormuz to other nations. The center noted that the U.S. appears confident in its own economic and energy independence, while countries reliant on regional exports may face challenges.

Fuel prices in Thailand also experienced a surge on Thursday, with diesel prices increasing by approximately 12% after government subsidy cuts.

Political Criticism

Democrats have criticized Trump’s address as “incoherent,” arguing it failed to provide clear answers to fundamental questions about the conflict. Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) highlighted the rising costs of gas, diesel, fertilizer, and other essentials as consequences of the conflict. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) stated the speech was “grounded in a reality that only exists in Donald Trump’s mind.”

Market Response

Following Trump’s announcement, oil prices rose by more than 4%, and Asian stock markets experienced declines. Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 fell 1.4% to 53,004.81, South Korea’s Kospi lost 3.4% to 5,292.36, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng decreased by 0.8% to 25,082.59.

Trump also stated the U.S. would “finish the job” in Iran and suggested that military operations could conclude soon.