U.S. President Donald Trump is defending American military strikes on Iran, saying the campaign targeted and weakened what Washington describes as Tehran’s nuclear capabilities. Trump has repeatedly said the strikes were aimed at preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon, while Tehran maintains that its nuclear programme is peaceful and denies possessing nuclear weapons.
The conflict began with U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28, followed by Iranian strikes against Israel and U.S. positions in the region. The fighting has now entered its seventh month, with tensions continuing across the Middle East.
The conflict has also affected major energy and shipping routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz. Commercial traffic through the strategic waterway has fallen sharply as military tensions continue, adding pressure to global energy markets.
The wider conflict has also involved Iran-backed groups, including the Houthis in Yemen, whose attacks have added further risks to shipping and regional security.
Trump has more recently said he hopes the war is moving toward an end and has indicated that Washington is looking for a possible deal. Diplomatic contacts remain in focus as both sides face pressure to reduce tensions.
For now, however, fighting and military confrontations continue, while the future of the conflict remains uncertain. The focus is increasingly on whether diplomatic efforts can produce a lasting settlement and reduce the risk of further regional escalation.
