The White House announced on Tuesday that American military forces are making consistent and substantial progress in their ongoing operation targeting Iran. Since the campaign’s inception, thousands of strategic locations have been struck, leading to a marked decline in Iranian drone activity. This development underscores the intensity and scale of the US military’s efforts to curtail Iran’s regional influence and military capabilities.
During a detailed press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed that nearly 5,000 Iranian sites have been targeted so far. These strikes have inflicted significant damage on Iran’s military infrastructure, including the destruction of approximately 50 naval vessels. Additionally, critical facilities involved in the production of ballistic missiles have been severely impacted, further diminishing Tehran’s ability to project power in the region.
Leavitt emphasized that Iranian drone operations have dropped by an estimated 85 percent, a testament to the effectiveness of the US military’s precision strikes. The use of heavy ordnance, such as 2,000-pound bombs, has been instrumental in neutralizing key missile installations. These efforts have collectively weakened Iran’s capacity to launch retaliatory attacks, thereby reducing the immediate threat to US forces and allies in the Middle East.
Turning to the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, Leavitt reiterated President Donald Trump’s firm commitment to safeguarding the uninterrupted flow of oil through this vital maritime corridor. The strait serves as a crucial artery for global energy supplies, and any attempt by Iran to obstruct it would provoke a decisive military response from the United States. The administration remains vigilant and prepared to deploy the US Navy to escort oil tankers through the waterway if necessary, ensuring stability in global oil markets.
While acknowledging that the ongoing tensions could lead to a temporary spike in oil prices, Leavitt expressed confidence that such increases would be short-lived. The overarching objective remains to prevent Iran from threatening the US and its allies with nuclear weapons or expanding its ballistic missile arsenal unchecked. The operation’s timeline is projected to span four to six weeks, although the ultimate duration will depend on President Trump’s strategic decisions based on evolving intelligence.
Leavitt also highlighted intelligence indicating that Iran has been rapidly expanding its missile capabilities, which prompted the current military action. She noted that the president is determined to prevent a radicalized leadership from gaining control in Tehran, which could further destabilize the region. When questioned about potential collaboration with Pakistan, she stated that the administration would release more information once discussions progress, hinting at possible diplomatic or logistical support.
In a pointed critique, Leavitt accused Democratic lawmakers of failing to support previous congressional resolutions condemning Iran’s aggressive behavior. She suggested that their opposition stems more from political disagreements with President Trump than from the merits of the issue itself. “Iran has chosen a path of destruction rather than peace,” she asserted, underscoring the administration’s rationale for the military campaign.
In addition to addressing the military operation, Leavitt used the briefing to urge Congress to pass the proposed “Save America Act.” This legislation aims to prohibit transgender women from participating in women’s sports, restrict access to gender-transition procedures, and bar undocumented immigrants from voting in US elections. The administration frames the bill as a necessary measure to protect traditional values and the integrity of American institutions.
As the situation in the Middle East continues to evolve, the White House remains focused on its dual objectives: neutralizing Iran’s military threats and advancing domestic legislative priorities. The coming weeks will be critical in determining the trajectory of the military operation and the political landscape surrounding the “Save America Act.”
