Washington, March 21 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump declared that Iran's military has been “defeated,” even as hostilities persist and international worries grow over oil shipping routes and overall regional stability.

During a press briefing on the South Lawn, Trump detailed that the United States is nearing the completion of its military initiatives.

“We are approaching our goals as we contemplate drawing down our significant military operations in the Middle East against the Terrorist Regime of Iran,” he stated.

Trump laid out an ambitious agenda, which included “Completely dismantling Iranian Missile Capabilities, Launch Platforms, and all related components,” “Eradicating Iran’s Defense Manufacturing Sector,” and “Annihilating their Navy and Air Force, including Anti-Aircraft Systems.”

He also stressed the importance of preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear arms, affirming that the United States would guarantee Iran never approaches “Nuclear Capability.”

In his comments, Trump portrayed the military situation as overwhelmingly favorable for Washington.

“I believe we’ve triumphed…We’ve eliminated everything, we’re operating freely. From a military perspective…they’re done,” he remarked.

Despite suggestions from various nations to halt the hostilities, Trump made it clear he was uninterested in a ceasefire.

“You don’t initiate a ceasefire when you’re actively decimating the opposition…We’re not inclined to do that,” he stated.

The president addressed concerns regarding the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global oil transport channel, indicating that nations reliant on it should take the lead in its security.

“The United States doesn’t utilize the strait; we don’t require it…Europe, Korea, Japan, China, and many others do, so they’ll need to step up,” he explained.

He characterized the reopening of the strait as “a straightforward military operation,” although he noted it would necessitate “substantial support…you need vessels, you need scale,” and pointed out that NATO had “so far lacked the courage” to act.

Trump also indicated that he expects US allies to take on a more significant role. “They should participate,” he said in response to inquiries about nations like Australia and South Korea, adding he was “very surprised” by their hesitation.

Simultaneously, he reaffirmed his alignment with Israel. “We seek victory, both of us. And that’s what we’ve achieved,” he declared.

Regarding broader diplomatic relations, Trump mentioned that discussions with Russia concerning Ukraine are ongoing despite the conflict. “We’re in talks…They occur nearly every day,” he noted.

He dismissed worries about economic repercussions, including rising oil prices and market fluctuations, asserting that the military operation is crucial. “We’re not allowing a nuclear weapon to fall into the hands of terrorist scum, and we’re decisively hitting them,” he added, expressing confidence that the operation is “weeks ahead of schedule.”