Trump Suggests End to ‘Very Complete’ War in Iran Following Putin Call
WASHINGTON – U.S. President Donald Trump indicated Monday that the military operation targeting Iran, dubbed “Operation Epic Fury,” is nearing its conclusion, describing the war as “very complete, pretty much.” The assessment came after a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the first known conversation between the two leaders this year.
According to Russian state news agency TASS, the hour-long discussion encompassed the conflict in Iran, as well as the ongoing war in Ukraine and the situation in Venezuela.
Speaking to CBS News, Trump detailed the impact of the strikes carried out jointly by the U.S. and Israel, stating, “Iran has no navy, no communications, they’ve got no Air Force.” He added that Iranian missile capabilities have been significantly degraded, with drones “being blown up all over the place, including their manufacturing.” Trump asserted that Iran has “nothing left” from a military standpoint, following what the U.S. military reports as over 3,000 targets struck in the past week.
The conflict escalated dramatically on February 28 with the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, during the initial airstrikes. Mojtaba Khamenei was subsequently appointed as the new Supreme Leader on Sunday. Trump stated he had “no message” for the new leader.
The war has not been without cost for the U.S., with seven military personnel losing their lives to date. Tehran has responded with retaliatory attacks against other Middle Eastern nations, including the United Arab Emirates.
Despite a demand for unconditional surrender issued by Trump, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected the request while apologizing for attacks on neighboring countries.
The Kremlin reported that Putin shared proposals with Trump during their call aimed at a swift resolution to the conflict. Details of those proposals have not been released.
This war represents a significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East, with potential ramifications for global stability. The United States and Israel have framed the operation as a necessary response to Iranian aggression and a threat to regional security.
