US President Donald Trump delivered his first prime-time address defending the ongoing conflict with Iran, stating that 'core strategic objectives are nearing completion.' He vowed to intensify attacks over the next two to three weeks, aiming to 'bring Iran back to the Stone Ages.'
The speech came amid declining approval ratings and economic concerns. While Trump reiterated past statements, he highlighted recent military successes, comparing the duration of the current conflict to historical wars like World War I and II. He emphasized swift victories on the battlefield, claiming Iran is no longer a significant threat.
Meanwhile, Iran launched fresh missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and US bases in the Gulf, hitting Tel Aviv, Eilat, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Israeli air defenses intercepted incoming fire as the country prepared for Passover. An Iranian attack earlier this week wounded 14 people, including an 11-year-old girl, and damaged an oil tanker near Qatar.