US President Donald Trump said the United States is considering the possibility of "gradually reducing" its military operation against Iran, as attacks between Iran and Israel continue.
In a post on social media, Trump said the US is close to achieving its objectives, but stressed that other countries must take responsibility for maintaining security in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil shipping routes.
"We are getting very close to achieving our objectives as we consider reducing our major military efforts in the Middle East against the terrorist regime of Iran," Trump wrote on the Truth Social platform.
He added that the Strait of Hormuz should be guarded and patrolled by countries that use it for energy transport. “The United States should not do this. If asked, we can help, but it should not be necessary once the Iranian threat is eliminated,” he stressed.
Trump's statements come as the war between the US and Israel on one side and Iran on the other has entered its fourth week. According to reports, over 2,000 people have been killed in Iran since the attacks began on February 28.
Meanwhile, Iranian media reported that the nuclear enrichment facility at Natanz had been attacked. Attacks on energy infrastructure in Iran and the Gulf have also caused oil prices to jump by around 50%, raising concerns about a potential blow to the global economy.
In recent days, Trump has also criticized NATO allies, accusing them of a lack of support and reluctance to help keep the Strait of Hormuz open.
