President Donald Trump sought to reassure Americans about the US military campaign in Iran, emphasising that the war serves national interests and that any economic impact would be temporary, according to the Wall Street Journal.

In a 20-minute White House address, Trump highlighted what he described as significant battlefield gains, saying military objectives would be achieved “very shortly.” He claimed the enemy had suffered “clear and devastating large-scale losses” in just weeks.

While advocating for diplomacy, Trump warned that US strikes on Iran would intensify, stating the country would be hit ‘extremely hard’ if it attempted to recover nuclear materials.

He also predicted the Strait of Hormuz would ‘open up naturally’ post-conflict, with energy and stock markets stabilising, and encouraged other nations to help secure the strategic waterway.

Analysts cited by the WSJ noted US and Israeli forces had targeted over 12,300 sites, sunk 155 vessels, and killed senior Iranian figures, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Despite these strikes, Iran has continued its nuclear program and tightened control over the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump framed Iran as a longstanding threat, warning that its acquisition of nuclear weapons would be “intolerable.” He also claimed Tehran killed 45,000 people during January’s anti-government protests, a figure above prior US estimates.

Experts, including Ali Vaez of the International Crisis Group, argued that while Iran has been wounded, coercion has not forced it to capitulate.

In recent days, Trump asked Vice President JD Vance to communicate that Washington is open to a ceasefire under certain conditions, though Iran has not requested one.

Trump criticised NATO allies for limited involvement in reopening the strait and noted discussions with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, without mentioning NATO in his speech.

Public concern over fuel costs and global energy prices has added pressure as midterm elections approach.

The address followed Trump’s attendance at US Supreme Court arguments on his birthright citizenship executive order, a key part of his immigration agenda.