US President Donald Trump has asserted that the war with Iran is “virtually over,” citing what he described as the significant weakening of Iran’s military capabilities through joint operations with Israel. The comments, made during an interview with CBS News on Monday, March 9, 2026, come amid ongoing conflict and escalating rhetoric from both sides. Trump did not specify a timeline for a potential cessation of US and Israeli airstrikes against the Islamic Republic, but indicated the US is “very far ahead” of its initial projection of four to five weeks for the military campaign.
The President’s assessment contrasts with continued statements from Iranian officials and actions on the ground. The conflict, which began with a strike that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28, 2026, has expanded throughout the Middle East, raising concerns about regional stability. The situation remains fluid, with both sides signaling a willingness to continue hostilities. The core of the conflict stems from stalled negotiations and US concerns about Iran’s regional ambitions, as well as its nuclear program.
Iran Vows Increased Missile Strikes
Despite Trump’s claims of a near-conclusion to the conflict, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard has announced plans to increase the frequency and firepower of its missile launches. According to reports from Iranian state television, Majid Mussawi, commander of the Guard’s air and space force, stated that future launches will utilize rockets with warheads weighing at least one ton. This escalation suggests Iran intends to demonstrate its continued military capabilities and deter further attacks.
Hezbollah Launches Attack on Israeli Military Base
Further complicating the situation, the pro-Iranian Hezbollah militia launched a barrage of rockets targeting an Israeli military base near Tel Aviv on Monday. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for the attack on a “Home Front Command center” in Ramla, describing it as retaliation for what they termed “criminal Israeli aggression” against Lebanese cities and the southern suburbs of Beirut. Previous reports indicate that Israel had killed a Hezbollah unit commander in southern Lebanon prior to the retaliatory strikes.
Trump’s statements echo earlier assertions that the US may have “forced Israel’s hand” in initiating attacks on Iran. According to ABC News, Trump claimed he believed Iran was preparing to attack the US first, prompting the US strike. He too acknowledged that many individuals favored to lead Iran in the future have been killed in recent strikes, including in an operation on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
Differing Accounts of Military Weakening
Trump asserted that Iran “has nothing left,” claiming its navy, communications infrastructure, and air force have been effectively neutralized, and that most of its missiles and drones have been destroyed. Yet, these claims have not been independently verified and are disputed by Iranian officials, and analysts. The extent of the damage inflicted on Iran’s military infrastructure remains unclear, and independent assessments are limited due to restricted access to the region. Secretary of State Marco Rubio previously stated that the US strikes were partially triggered by intelligence indicating Iran would retaliate for an Israeli attack, as reported by ABC News.
The US President also indicated that a decision on when to end the war with Iran will be made jointly with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The Times of Israel reported on Sunday that Trump believes the outcome will be “mutual,” though he will ultimately have the final say. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has previously suggested the war is expected to last four to six weeks.
The ongoing conflict has prompted concerns about broader regional instability. The Hill reported that Trump warned Iran against retaliation, threatening “force never seen before.” The situation remains highly volatile, and the potential for further escalation remains significant.
Looking ahead, the coming days will be critical in determining the trajectory of the conflict. The extent to which Iran follows through on its threats to increase missile strikes, and the response from the US and Israel, will be key indicators. The role of regional actors, such as Hezbollah, will also be crucial. Continued diplomatic efforts, though currently stalled, may be necessary to de-escalate tensions and prevent a wider regional war. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, and further developments are expected in the coming weeks.
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