Donald Trump Says War with Iran Is “Very Complete”

US President Donald Trump, in an interview with CBS News, stated his belief that the war against Iran is “very complete” and that Washington’s progress is “very far ahead” of his initial four-to-five-week estimate. Trump noted that Iran’s navy, communications, and air force have been effectively neutralized.

Addressing the status of the Strait of Hormuz—a vital maritime chokepoint for one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas—Trump mentioned that while some ships are passing through, he is considering “taking it over.” The conflict has already left this crucial route virtually closed.

The war began on February 28 with strikes by the United States and Israel, drawing retaliatory attacks from Iran against Israel and Gulf states hosting U.S. bases. The conflict has resulted in significant Iranian casualties, including the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Trump declined to offer a message for Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the Martyred leader, though he indicated he has a successor in mind for Iran without providing further details. For its part, Tehran has rejected Trump’s assertions regarding his influence over the selection of Iran’s next leadership.