US-Iran Conflict: Trump Claims Victory as Conflict Enters Sixth Day

As the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran enters its sixth day, President Donald Trump has asserted that Iran is “completely defeated” and seeking an agreement. This comes after two weeks of military operations led by the US and Israel against the Islamic Republic, according to Trump’s statements on his social media platform, Truth Social.

Trump’s Claims and Ongoing Operations

President Trump stated that media outlets are deliberately withholding information about the “excellent results” achieved by the US military in its operations against Iran. He claims Iran is now seeking a deal, though not one he would accept.

Escalation of Conflict and Military Deployments

The conflict has seen intensified attacks from both Israel and the US, met with retaliatory strikes from Iran across the region. More than 900 people have been killed by Israeli and American strikes, according to Iranian state media, while 11 have died in Israel due to Iranian counterattacks. Six US soldiers have as well been killed in an Iranian strike targeting a makeshift operations center in Kuwait.

The Pentagon is deploying additional resources to the Middle East, including a Marine expeditionary unit consisting of approximately 2,500 troops and an additional warship, to bolster defenses against potential Iranian aggression. Five US Air Force refueling planes have reportedly been struck by an Iranian missile in Saudi Arabia.

Key Events and Developments

• Supreme Leader Targeted: A major attack launched by Israel and the United States resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
• Evacuation Warning: The Israeli military issued an evacuation warning for an industrial area in Tabriz, Iran, urging civilians to leave immediately.
• Kharg Island Strikes: President Trump stated that the US military has “totally obliterated every MILITARY target” on Kharg Island, a crucial hub for Iran’s oil industry. He indicated a reluctance to damage oil infrastructure “for reasons of decency” but warned of potential future action if free passage through the Strait of Hormuz is not guaranteed.
• US Troop Deployment: The US is sending approximately 2,500 troops and an additional warship to the Middle East.
• Evacuations Underway: The first US evacuation flight has departed the Middle East, following criticism of the Trump administration for a lack of preparedness in evacuating US citizens. More than 17,500 US citizens have returned home since February 28.

Congressional Approval and War Powers

President Trump has described the US-Israel attacks on Iran as “major combat operations.” As commander in chief, the president can initiate certain military actions without a formal declaration of war, but is required to notify Congress within 48 hours of hostilities beginning, as per the 1973 War Powers Resolution. Trump submitted a resolution to Congress on Tuesday, citing an “untenable” threat from Iran despite diplomatic efforts. House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed that the administration had briefed the “Gang of 8” – a bipartisan group of congressional leaders – prior to the strikes.

Timeline of Escalation

On February 27, 2026, President Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the progress of nuclear talks with Iran. Three hours later, he authorized “Operation Epic Fury,” targeting Iranian leaders, including Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and top military officials.

President Trump anticipates the conflict will last four to five weeks.