Trump says Iran war objectives 'nearing completion' in address to nation

April 2, 2026

President Trump delivered a primetime televised address regarding the ongoing five-week conflict with Iran, claiming US military operations have nearly achieved their strategic objectives while threatening intensified strikes over the coming weeks. The president urged allied nations to take control of the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively blockaded, causing oil prices to spike above $100 per barrel and contributing to Trump's declining approval ratings ahead of midterm elections. Trump warned that without a negotiated settlement, the US would target Iran's electrical infrastructure, though he indicated oil facilities would be spared to allow for potential Iranian recovery.

Who is affected

President Donald Trump (facing declining popularity ratings)
American citizens (experiencing rocketing gas prices and affected by war consequences)
Iran's leadership and military forces
Global oil markets and countries dependent on Strait of Hormuz shipping
US allies including United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain, Cyprus, and Britain
Nato alliance and Secretary General Mark Rutte
US political figures including Senator Chuck Schumer and Senator Lindsey Graham
American military forces conducting operations

What action is being taken

US military forces are conducting strikes on Iranian targets as part of Operation Epic Fury (more than 12,300 targets struck)
Iranian forces are launching missile and drone attacks in UAE, Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain, and Cyprus
British troops are bringing down Iranian drones across multiple countries
The US is having ongoing discussions with Iran's leadership
Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte is planning to visit the White House next week

Why it matters

This conflict has significant global economic implications, disrupting the Strait of Hormuz shipping route and driving oil prices above $100 per barrel, which directly impacts gas prices for American consumers. The war represents a major test of US military strategy and Trump's leadership during an election year, with two-thirds of Americans wanting a quick end to the conflict and 60% disapproving of the military strikes. The outcome could reshape US relations with both Iran and NATO allies, while potentially destabilizing the broader Middle East region and global energy markets.

What's next

Trump plans to strike Iran "extremely hard" over the next two to three weeks
If negotiations with Iran fail, the US will target "each and every one" of Iran's electric generating plants simultaneously
Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte is planning to visit the White House next week
US midterm elections will take place in November

Read full article from source: BBC