US President Donald Trump’s first live remarks in public about the US war in Iran offered few clues on his longer-term goals for Iran once the war ends.
Trump outlined his military objectives, which include destroying Iran’s ballistic missile programme, navy and ability to develop nuclear weapons. He also gave an update on his thinking about how long the war might last, saying the administration had initially projected it could take “four to five weeks”.
RecommendedMust Read
But at the same time, Trump suggested a longer-term commitment if needed. “Whatever the time is, it’s OK. Whatever it takes,” Trump said.
The president didn’t address Iran’s political future, a major question now that the US has killed supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and it’s unclear who will replace him. Trump also didn’t offer an explanation of how the US plans to respond should the war widen into a broader regional conflict.
