Washington, March 21 (SANA) U.S. President Donald Trump said Saturday that Washington is considering gradually scaling back its military operations against Iran in the Middle East, after earlier rejecting calls for a ceasefire.
Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform that the United States is “getting close to achieving our objectives” while reviewing a gradual reduction of its military efforts against Iran.
He said countries that rely on the Strait of Hormuz should take responsibility for securing the waterway if necessary, adding that the United States does not depend on it.
Trump said U.S. objectives include targeting Iran’s missile capabilities and launch systems, dismantling its defense industrial base, and weakening its naval and air forces, including air defense systems.
He added that Washington aims to prevent Iran from developing nuclear capabilities while maintaining rapid response capabilities and protecting U.S. allies in the region.
On Friday, Trump ruled out a ceasefire in the conflict with Iran, saying the objective remains “victory.”
Speaking to reporters at the White House before departing for Florida, Trump said, “I don’t want a ceasefire,” adding that such a move is unlikely “when you are literally in the process of eliminating the other side.”
He also criticized NATO allies, describing them as “cowards” for declining to provide military assistance to secure the Strait of Hormuz.
At a White House event, Trump said operations against Iran were progressing “very well,” adding that U.S. forces remain unmatched.
Trump has sent mixed signals in recent days, at times saying the United States does not need assistance to secure the strategic waterway while also criticizing allies for not offering support.
In a separate post on Truth Social, he said NATO without the United States is “a paper tiger.”
The comments came as several major powers, including Britain, France, Germany and Japan, said they were ready to contribute to efforts to secure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil and gas supplies.
N.J / A.B.D
