Donald Trump claims the war with Iran is almost over because operations have progressed much faster than the originally expected 4-5 weeks. He also said he is considering taking control of the Strait of Hormuz.
Donald Trump, U.S. President, told CBS News on Monday, 9 Mar 2026 GMT+7, that he believes the war with Iran is "very close to being completed" and that the Washington administration is making "much faster progress" compared to his initial estimate of 4-5 weeks.
"I think the war is nearly finished. Essentially, they have no navy left, no communications, and no air force anymore," Trump told CBS News.
When asked about the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said that ships have begun to transit again, but he is considering taking control of the area.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important points for oil transportation, serving as a passage for about one-fifth of the world’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG). The ongoing war has nearly closed this crucial shipping route.
Asked about Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's new supreme leader and son of the previous supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei who was recently killed, Trump said, "I have no message to send to him." He also mentioned having someone in mind to lead Iran but did not provide further details.
Previously, Trump stated he wanted to be involved in choosing Iran’s leader, a proposal Tehran rejected.
Separately, Reuters reported that President Trump’s administration is considering easing sanctions on Russian oil to help ease the global energy price surge caused by the war between the U.S.-Israel coalition and Iran. Three sources said an announcement could come as soon as Monday.
This move aims to increase global oil supply amid severe transport disruptions in the Middle East due to the expanding conflict. However, the decision might complicate U.S. efforts to cut off Russia’s war funding from Ukraine.
Sources told Reuters discussions might range from broad sanctions relief to targeted options allowing certain countries, like India, to buy Russian oil without fearing U.S. penalties or import taxes.
Last week, the U.S. temporarily allowed India to purchase Russian crude oil aboard tankers at sea to help offset supply shortages from the Middle East.
Follow international news:https://www.thairath.co.th/news/foreign
Source:cna