Trump says war with Iran could last another 2–3 weeks

US President Donald Trump has declined to say whether a ceasefire with Iran has ended after reported strikes on the United Arab Emirates and suggested the conflict could last another two to three weeks.

Source: ABC News, citing an interview with radio host Hugh Hewitt

Details: When asked whether the ceasefire had collapsed, Trump replied: "Well, I can't tell you that." On whether recent hostilities signalled a renewed conflict, he said that "one way or the other, we win."

"We either make the right deal or we win very easily. From the military standpoint, we've already won that. You know, you've heard me say it a million times, and other people say it. They had 159 ships. Hugh, now they have none. They're all at the bottom of the sea," Trump said.

Trump did not confirm whether Iran had violated the ceasefire, saying "we'll see what happens" and instead started boasting about the US military capabilities.

The US president said the conflict could continue for "probably another two weeks" or "maybe three weeks", stressing that "time is not of the essence for us" and claiming the war has strong public support.

Trump said the US has "control" over the Strait of Hormuz amid the launch of the Operation Project Freedom. "They said they were going to take over the Homruz Strait, and then we thought they might have. We took it over from them," Trump said of Iran.

Regarding oil markets, he suggested prices could rise further – potentially up to US$250 – while arguing that ships are now heading to the US for oil supplies.

Background:

• On 4 May, Trump announced Operation Project Freedom aimed at freeing vessels stuck in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian military officials warned that US forces would be targeted if they approached the area.
• United States Central Command said it would deploy destroyers, more than 100 aircraft and 15,000 troops to escort ships through the strait as part of the operation.

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