He said the US had weakened Iran’s military capabilities, including its navy, air force and missile programme, and claimed progress on limiting its nuclear ambitions. However, he did not give a clear timeline for ending the conflict, repeating only that action could continue for “two to three weeks”.

The president also urged allies to take more responsibility in securing shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, saying the US did not “need it” in the same way.

On rising fuel costs, Trump said higher prices were a “short-term” effect of disruptions caused by Iran, and added that they would come down.

5 takeaways from Trump’s speech: 

• Trump said US war goals in Iran are “nearing completion”
• He claimed the US is close to “finishing the job” but gave no firm timeline
• The president repeated a possible “two to three weeks” timeframe for further action. He called on allies to do more to secure the Strait of Hormuz
• Trump said rising fuel prices are temporary and linked them to the conflict
• Iran has denied Trump’s earlier claim that it sought a ceasefire, calling the statement “false and baseless”, according to state media.

Is the US preparing for a strategic retreat, or is this the “calm” before a final, devastating kinetic strike? The Indian Express Global Desk bringing you live updates, expert analysis, and reports from Jerusalem, Tehran, and Washington.