US President Donald Trump said Sunday the joint US-Israeli military campaign against Iran could last around four weeks.
“It’s always been a four-week process,” Trump told the Daily Mail, adding, “As strong as it is, it’s a big country, it’ll take four weeks — or less.”
Trump claimed the operation has unfolded largely as planned, saying, “We took out their entire leadership, far, far more than what we thought.”
He asserted that 48 Iranian leaders had been eliminated, reiterating his earlier statement that the strikes exceeded expectations.
On Saudi Arabia’s potential involvement, Trump suggested the Kingdom was already engaged, saying, “They’re fighting, they’re fighting too,” despite no confirmation from Riyadh.
The remarks followed a CNN report, later deleted, suggesting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had authorized strikes on Iran if necessary.
Trump expressed hope that the military campaign could pave the way for democracy in Iran, stating, “A lot of very positive things could happen.”
US forces struck Iranian command centers, missile sites, naval vessels, and air defense systems in the first 24 hours, using stealth bombers, fighter jets, and aircraft carriers, according to CENTCOM.
He maintained that operations were “ahead of schedule,” praising the effectiveness of the combined strikes against strategic targets across Iran.
Iran has responded with drone and missile attacks against Gulf countries, killing three US service members and seriously wounding five others since Saturday.
Trump concluded by emphasising American resolve and preparedness, adding, “We will continue to strike hard, smart, and decisively until our objectives are achieved.”
