US President Donald Trump has revealed how long fighting with Iran could continue after the first American troops were killed, warning the Middle East crisis may last for weeks.
Three US servicemembers were killed and five others wounded in retaliatory strikes linked to Iran, according to the Pentagon, marking the first American fatalities since the conflict dramatically escalated. Speaking in an interview, Mr Trump paid tribute to the fallen soldiers but admitted further casualties could occur. « They’re great people, » he said. « And, you know, we expect that to happen, unfortunately. Could happen continuous – it could happen again. » The president then outlined a potential timeline for the war, suggesting military operations could last around a month – It’s always been a four-week process, » he said. « We figured it will be four weeks or so… it’s a big country, it’ll take four weeks – or less. »
American officials have contacted the families of the dead servicemen and the president said he intends to meet them « at the appropriate time ». He may attend the dignified transfer of the troops’ remains or invite relatives to the White House.
Mr Trump insisted the campaign was progressing as planned despite the deaths, saying the military action was « going as expected ».
He added that he hasn’t been surprised by any of the outcomes of the strikes thus far and claimed strikes had eliminated senior Iranian leadership figures and significantly weakened the country’s military capabilities.
« I think it’s going as per planned, » he added, « you know, other that we took out their entire leadership – far, far more than what we thought. Looks like 48.’
Mr Trump added he had spoken with several leaders across the Middle East and indicated he would soon address the American public again regarding the military action.
While he did not rule out talks with Tehran, he suggested negotiations were not imminent, saying Iranian officials “should have talked last week”.
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The fighting follows a major escalation after US-led strikes targeted Iranian facilities, prompting retaliatory attacks on American-linked positions in the region.
His comments are likely to heighten fears the crisis could widen, with thousands of US military personnel stationed across the Middle East now on heightened alert as tensions continue to rise.
The President made the comments at his Mar-a-Lago resort, where he’s remained since ordering the strikes on Iran.
He added he had spoken on Sunday with the leaders of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Jordan and a ‘couple of others.’.
He also expressed hope that Iran could see political change once the US and Israeli military operations conclude, adding: « It’ll be very interesting to watch. But a lot of things could happen and a lot of very positive things could happen. »
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