FLORIDA – As U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth publicly maintained that American and Israeli military successes in Iran represented only “the beginning,” former President Donald Trump offered a contrasting message Monday, signaling a potential swift conclusion to the ongoing conflict. Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump stated the United States had “stopped the danger of the regime in Tehran at the right time” and added, “We are very proud to be involved, and it will be over soon.”
The former president had earlier indicated in an interview that the ten-day-old war was “pretty much completed,” and that operations were ahead of schedule. He had initially suggested the conflict might last four to five weeks. When pressed on Hegseth’s assertion of a longer campaign, Trump stated it was about building “a new country.”
Trump’s comments appeared to respond to rising oil prices and internal unrest within his political base. However, the former president delivered mixed signals, also stating, “We’ve won in many ways, but not enough.” He pledged to proceed “more decisively than ever” to achieve a final victory that would permanently eliminate the long-term threat. When asked if the war would end this week, he responded, “No, but soon, very soon.” He did not provide a specific date, claiming the major danger in the war had passed three days prior, with Iranian rockets, drones, and arms factories destroyed. According to Trump, “Tehran practically has nothing left militarily.”
Vance Reportedly “Less Enthusiastic” About Military Action
Reports indicate a division within Trump’s advisory circle, with some urging an exit strategy. The former president acknowledged that his Vice President, J.D. Vance, held a slightly different view. “I think he was probably less enthusiastic” about engaging in the conflict, Trump said. He praised Marco Rubio, noting that plans for the military operation were modeled after a previous operation in Venezuela, calling Rubio “the best Secretary of State America has ever had.”
In Washington, speculation arose immediately following the strike against the Iranian regime, which resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, that Trump might simply declare victory and halt operations if the regime’s resistance proved tenacious. Last Friday, Trump had demanded Iran’s unconditional surrender and insisted Washington should jointly select the future leadership in Tehran. He now expressed disappointment that the regime had appointed Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Ayatollah, as the new leader, stating, “I was disappointed because we believe it will lead to the same problems for the country.” He declined to comment on whether Mojtaba Khamenei would also become a target.
Addressing concerns about energy prices, Trump stated, eight months before the upcoming congressional elections, that the “excursion” into Iran was necessary and would ultimately lead to lower oil prices for American families. He threatened the regime with severe consequences should it attempt to disrupt shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20 percent of global oil trade passes. Trump warned that blocking the strategic waterway, connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, would mean “the end of the country.” He stated the strait was currently open and being traversed by tankers, but indicated he was considering taking control of it.
Trump also mentioned a recent phone call with Vladimir Putin, which he described as positive. He said the Russian president had offered assistance to Iran, but Trump responded that he could help if Putin ended the war in Ukraine. He did not comment on reports of Russian intelligence providing support to the Iranian military during the conflict against the United States, only stating that providing Iran with targeting data for U.S. Military sites would not be helpful to the Iranians.
The situation remains fluid, and the timeline for a potential resolution remains uncertain. The conflicting messages from Trump and Hegseth highlight a potential tension within the administration regarding the scope and duration of the military operation. The international community is closely watching developments, particularly regarding the potential impact on global oil markets and regional stability.
The war in Iran, which began ten days ago, has already had significant geopolitical ramifications. The death of Supreme Leader Khamenei represents a major blow to the Iranian regime, but the appointment of his son as his successor suggests a continuation of the existing power structure. The U.S. Military’s stated objectives remain focused on neutralizing Iranian military capabilities and preventing further attacks against American interests. However, the ultimate goal – and the path to achieving it – remains subject to debate.
As the conflict progresses, the focus will likely shift to the long-term implications for the region. The potential for proxy conflicts, the rise of extremist groups, and the humanitarian consequences of the war are all factors that will demand to be addressed. The Trump administration’s approach to these challenges will be closely scrutinized by allies and adversaries alike.
Next Steps: The White House is expected to provide another update on the situation in Iran later this week. Further developments regarding the Strait of Hormuz and potential negotiations with Iran are also anticipated. Archysport will continue to provide comprehensive coverage of this evolving situation.
