US President Donald Trump has declared that Iran is “totally defeated” in the ongoing US-Israeli military campaign and claims the country is now seeking a deal—one he says he will not accept.
In a post on his Truth Social platform dated March 13, 2026, Trump wrote: “The Fake News Media hates to report how well the United States Military has done against Iran, which is totally defeated and wants a deal – But not a deal that I would accept!”
This statement comes amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, now in its second week or more, involving intense US and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets. Recent actions include US bombings that “obliterated” military sites on Kharg Island, Iran’s key oil export hub, with warnings that oil infrastructure could be next if hostilities continue.
Context of the US-Israel-Iran Conflict
The war began after failed negotiations and escalating tensions, with US forces conducting widespread strikes on Iranian military assets, including its navy, air force, missile programs, and leadership targets. Trump has repeatedly claimed significant victories, such as destroying large portions of Iran’s military capabilities and stating the conflict is a “short-term excursion” that will end “very soon” once Iran is “totally and decisively defeated.”
However, Iranian officials have remained defiant:
- They have pledged to continue fighting and retaliated with drone and missile attacks on Israel and Gulf neighbors.
- At a pro-government rally in Tehran on March 13, 2026, crowds chanted “Death to America” and “Death to Israel.”
- Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that talks with the US are “off the table” due to past “bitter experiences,” and attacks would persist as needed.
Trump’s rhetoric has been consistent in rejecting negotiations short of total capitulation. Earlier in March 2026, he posted that there would be “no deal with Iran except UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER,” and he has emphasized regime change implications while vowing to rebuild Iran stronger under new, “acceptable” leadership.