President Donald Trump has once again escalated rhetoric surrounding the ongoing conflict with Iran, claiming that Tehran’s military structure and leadership have been severely damaged following weeks of US-led operations in the region.
Speaking during recent public remarks, Trump said Iran no longer possesses an effective navy, air force, or anti-aircraft systems. He also claimed that “three layers” of Iranian leadership had been eliminated during the military campaign, while warning that the United States could still target additional locations if necessary.
“We have achieved 70 percent of our goals in Iran,” Trump said, adding that Washington continues to monitor developments closely. However, the US President did not publicly specify what the remaining objectives are or identify potential future targets.
The comments come amid continuing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where the United States has maintained a naval blockade and carried out operations under the campaign known as “Operation Epic Fury.” The White House has repeatedly claimed the operation significantly weakened Iran’s military capabilities, including naval assets, missile systems, and air defenses.
According to a White House release issued in April, the US administration said Iran’s air force had been “functionally neutered” and claimed most of the country’s naval infrastructure had been destroyed during the operation.
Trump has also repeatedly argued that Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons, warning that failure to stop Tehran could trigger wider instability across the Middle East. In earlier remarks, he stated that Iran’s military and leadership had been “destroyed” and said the country’s economy was under extreme pressure because of ongoing sanctions and the blockade.
However, intelligence assessments and independent reports have presented a more cautious picture. A recent Washington Post report citing US intelligence sources said Iran still retains a significant portion of its missile and drone capabilities despite sustained American and Israeli strikes.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to secure a broader ceasefire and reopen shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz remain underway. Trump has indicated that he still hopes to reach a negotiated agreement with Tehran, though he has also warned that military action remains an option if talks collapse.