President Donald Trump has expressed skepticism regarding Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, calling his selection a “big mistake.” During a press conference in Florida, Trump shifted the focus to the military success of the U.S.-Israeli coalition, claiming the war is “pretty much” over. He reiterated his stance that the operation was a necessary move to eliminate “evil” forces in the region.
The appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei follows the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the initial stages of the campaign. Analysts view the younger Khamenei as a hardliner with deep ties to the military, which has fueled concerns that the conflict could see a second wind. Despite this, Trump remains confident that the Iranian military has “nothing left” to fight with.
The President pointed to the total degradation of Iran’s air and naval forces as proof of the mission’s effectiveness. He argued that the swift nature of the strikes prevented the war from becoming a “forever war,” a point he frequently emphasized to his Republican base. While the U.S. claims victory is near, Iranian officials insist they will determine when the fighting stops.
Economically, the war has been a double-edged sword, causing oil prices to spike before retreating on news of a possible end to hostilities. The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint, with Iran attempting to use energy leverage to force a U.S. withdrawal. France and other NATO allies are currently weighing their involvement in keeping global trade routes open.
As the conflict enters its second week, the human cost is becoming clearer, with over a thousand reported casualties in Iran and significant displacement in Lebanon. Trump’s rhetoric suggests a desire to pivot away from active combat, yet the situation on the ground remains volatile. Future stability depends on whether the new Iranian leadership can consolidate power under continued pressure.
Trump Criticizes New Iranian Leadership as “Very Complete” War Nears End
