President Donald Trump addressed the nation on Wednesday night, asserting that the United States’ ‘core strategic objectives’ in Iran are ‘nearing completion’ just one month after the commencement of Operation Epic Fury. He also warned that the U.S. would “hit Tehran extremely hard” in the coming weeks.

Operation Epic Fury 'Nearing Completion'

President Trump stated that after 32 days of Operation Epic Fury, Iran is “essentially really no longer a threat.” He detailed the United States’ objectives, which included systematically dismantling the regime’s ability to threaten America or project power beyond its borders.

“That means eliminating Iran’s navy, which is now absolutely destroyed, hurting their air force and their missile program at levels never seen before, and annihilating their defense industrial base,” the president said. He claimed the Iranian navy and air force have been eliminated, and their missile capabilities are severely depleted.

Economic Impact and Gas Prices

Acknowledging a rise in U.S. gas prices since the start of Operation Epic Fury, President Trump assured Americans that the increase is “short term.” The average price of a gallon of gas had surpassed $4 on Tuesday, a level not seen since 2022.

The president attributed the price increase to “the Iranian regime launching deranged terror attacks against commercial oil tankers and neighboring countries.” He emphasized the U.S. economy’s strength, highlighting record investments and low inflation under his leadership.

Acknowledging Allies and Troops

President Trump thanked U.S. allies in the Middle East – “Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain” – for their support. He pledged to protect them and ensure their success.

He also expressed gratitude to U.S. troops, referencing a recent operation in Venezuela as “quick, lethal, violent and respected by everyone all over the world.” He honored the 13 American service members who have died during Operation Epic Fury, stating their families urged him to “finish the job.”

Perspective on Conflict Duration

President Trump urged Americans to keep the conflict “in perspective,” comparing its 32-day duration to the length of previous U.S. military engagements, including World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Iraq War. He asserted that Iran, once “the bully of the Middle East,” is “the bully no longer.”

Criticism of the Iran Nuclear Deal

President Trump criticized the Iran Nuclear Deal negotiated under the Obama administration, stating that ending it was a necessary step to address a “cancer” that had long simmered. Further details regarding the previous administration's deal were not provided in the address.