Trump: "Iran’s military capabilities effectively neutralized… Middle East operation moving toward wind-down"

U.S. President Donald Trump suggested the possibility of ending military operations in the Middle East, saying Washington is close to meeting its military objectives against Iran.

In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, on the 20th (local time), Trump said, "We are very close to achieving the primary objectives of military operations against the Iranian regime," adding that he is "reviewing options to gradually wind down large-scale military activity in the Middle East."

He outlined the operation’s key objectives as: ▲neutralizing Iran’s missile forces and launch systems ▲destroying the defense-industrial base ▲eliminating naval and air power ▲cutting off Iran’s nuclear development capability at the source ▲protecting Middle East allies.

In particular, Trump stressed, "We will never allow Iran to gain access to nuclear capability," adding, "If necessary, the United States is prepared to respond swiftly and forcefully."

On the Strait of Hormuz, he also delivered a message that differed from his previous stance. He said, "Countries that use the strait should protect it themselves," adding that "the United States does not necessarily need to get involved." He noted, however, that "assistance is possible if requested."

He also reaffirmed his commitment to protecting Middle East allies. Mentioning Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain and Kuwait, Trump stressed he would "protect these countries at the highest level."