Trump says Iran war nearing completion, but signals more strikes ahead

Donald Trump addressed the nation overnight in his first primetime speech since the start of the war with Iran.

(NBC) – Donald Trump addressed the nation overnight in his first primetime speech since the start of the war with Iran, saying U.S. military objectives are nearing completion.

“One month into strikes, we are systematically dismantling the regime’s ability to threaten America or project power outside of their borders,” Trump said.

The president pointed to progress targeting Iran’s navy, air force, and missile programs, adding the campaign is designed to cripple Iran’s military capabilities and prevent it from developing a nuclear weapon.

But Trump made clear the conflict is not over.

“We’re going to hit them extremely hard over the next two to three weeks,” he said.

The ongoing conflict is already having a major economic impact. Stocks slipped and oil prices surged amid expectations of continued military action, with U.S. gas prices climbing above four dollars per gallon on average.

Trump said he expects prices to fall once fighting ends and suggested the critical shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz would reopen naturally. He also called on other countries to help secure the passage.

The president’s remarks are drawing criticism from some lawmakers, who say he has not clearly outlined an exit strategy.

“We are not indicating how exactly we’re going to end this,” said Jason Crow. “We’re spending exorbitant amounts of money.”

A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll shows 35 percent of Americans approve of the war, while 60 percent disapprove.

So far, 13 American service members have been killed. Trump acknowledged their deaths, saying the U.S. must continue the mission to honor their sacrifice.