By Muhammad Mamman
United States President Donald Trump has told Americans the country is approaching a “decisive phase” in its month-long war with Iran during a televised address from the White House.
Speaking in a 19-minute prime-time speech, Trump said US military objectives were close to being achieved and signalled that the conflict could end within weeks, even as he warned of intensified strikes if Tehran does not reach a deal. 
The address marked the first formal national speech by the president since the United States and its allies began large-scale military operations against Iran more than a month ago. 
Trump described recent military operations as “swift” and “overwhelming”, claiming the campaign had significantly weakened Iran’s military capabilities and brought Washington close to completing its core objectives. 
However, the president stopped short of providing a clear timeline for ending the war, saying the coming weeks would be critical while warning of further attacks if negotiations fail. 
The speech comes amid rising global concern over the conflict’s economic and geopolitical impact, including surging oil prices and continued instability in the Strait of Hormuz — a key global energy route. 
Critics in the United States have questioned the administration’s strategy and the lack of clarity about the war’s endgame, while markets reacted nervously following the address. 
