WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has declared that American forces have “virtually destroyed Iran” and will not withdraw until their objectives are achieved, as he detailed significant military gains and moves to stabilize global oil markets.
Speaking at a rally in Kentucky, President Trump claimed that the US military had inflicted severe damage on Iranian forces over the preceding 11 days. He asserted that the US had destroyed 58 Iranian ships and disabled 31 mines, while also claiming to have obliterated the Iranian air force. “In the first hour, it was over,” President Trump told the crowd, declaring victory in the conflict but stressing the need to remain. “We will not leave Iran until our goal is achieved,” he stated.
The President acknowledged that the US had effectively won the engagement early on but emphasized the importance of seeing the mission through to prevent future resurgence. His remarks underscore the administration’s commitment to the ongoing military campaign.
In a parallel move to address global economic pressures stemming from the conflict, President Trump announced a significant intervention in oil markets. He revealed that the International Energy Agency (IEA) has agreed to release 400 million barrels of oil from strategic petroleum reserves belonging to member nations. This coordinated effort is designed to stabilize prices amid the turmoil.
