U.S. President Donald Trump says Iran has been “totally defeated” in the ongoing war in the Middle East, with Israeli leaders also claiming that the conflict is entering a critical phase.
Speaking about the war, Trump said Iran now wants negotiations, but he is not willing to accept the deal being offered.
“The Fake News Media hates to report how well the United States Military has done against Iran, which is totally defeated and wants a deal — but not a deal that I would accept,” Trump wrote on social media.
The fighting began after a major military operation by Israel and the United States against Iranian targets earlier this year.
The campaign, known as Operation Lion’s Roar, targeted military and strategic sites across Iran.
Israeli officials, however, say the war is far from over, but is instead entering a “decisive stage” as military strikes continue against Iranian forces and facilities.
The war has already caused heavy damage and loss of life across the region.
Reports say more than 1,200 people have been killed in Iran since the fighting intensified, while attacks have also spread to countries like Lebanon and Iraq.
Recent airstrikes also targeted Iran’s Kharg Island, a major oil export hub that handles most of the country’s oil shipments.
Iran, however, says it will continue to fight and has warned that it may strike energy facilities linked to the United States and its allies.
With both sides making strong statements, observers say the war could shape the future of the Middle East for years to come.
