Trump also mentioned considering withdrawing the US from NATO due to lack of support in the Middle East, despite a 2023 act making it challenging. Iran’s foreign ministry denied Trump’s claim that the country requested a ceasefire, calling it “false and baseless.

Here are the 5 key points:

• US Military Operations: The US Central Command has hit over 12,300 targets in Iran, damaging or destroying vessels, military command centers, and ballistic missile sites.
• Iranian Attacks and Responses: Iranian attacks on Gulf countries continue, with the UAE and Qatar responding to missile and drone strikes. British troops have brought down 10 Iranian drones over several countries.
• Ceasefire Reports Denied: Iranian officials deny reports of requesting a ceasefire, calling them “false and baseless”.
• Iran’s President Addresses Americans: President Masoud Pezeshkian published an open letter to Americans, describing the war as an “occupation and invasion” but stating Iran has no ill will towards ordinary people in the US, Europe, and Gulf Arab neighbors.
• Trump’s Speech and NATO Concerns: Trump’s speech is expected to highlight US military victories and assure the public the operation will wind down soon. However, his comments on potentially leaving NATO have raised concerns in Europe.

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.