U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday claimed that Iran has been “totally defeated” in the ongoing U.S.-Israeli military campaign, accusing the media of ignoring the country’s success while Tehran seeks a deal he would not accept.
“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!” Trump said on his Truth Social platform, without providing further details.
Trump’s statement came after reports that U.S. forces had carried out heavy bombardment on military targets in Iran’s oil hub, Kharg Island. He also announced that the U.S. Navy would soon begin escorting oil tankers through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Despite the strikes, Tehran launched fresh drone and missile attacks on Israel and other Gulf states. In a show of defiance, several top Iranian officials joined a pro-government rally in Tehran on Friday, marching alongside demonstrators carrying banners that read “Death to America” and “Death to Israel.”
Iran’s top diplomat reiterated this week that talks with the United States remain off the table. “I don’t think talking with the Americans would be on our agenda anymore,” Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told PBS News, adding that Tehran had a “very bitter experience” during previous negotiations with the U.S.
The escalation marks a significant intensification of military action in the region, stoking fears of broader instability and raising concerns over the potential impact on global energy markets.
