US president Donald Trump says Iran is “on the verge of defeat” in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, but warned that the United States may continue military operations that could make it extremely difficult for the country to rebuild its infrastructure and economy.
Washington signals continued pressure on Tehran
Speaking to reporters, President Trump said Iranian military capabilities had been significantly weakened following a series of strikes targeting strategic infrastructure, military installations and transport networks across the country.
“It would make it almost impossible for them to rebuild their country again,” Trump said when asked about the potential continuation of US attacks.
The comments come as the conflict between Iran, the United States and regional allies enters an increasingly intense phase, with missile strikes, drone attacks and naval incidents reported across the Gulf region.
While the White House has emphasised that its military objectives focus on weakening Iran’s military capacity and preventing further escalation, the president did not provide a clear timeline for when the conflict might end.
Trump instead told reporters that Iran was “on the verge of defeat”, suggesting that sustained military pressure could push Tehran toward a strategic collapse.
Intelligence sources urge caution
However, assessments from within the US intelligence community appear more cautious. According to sources cited by Reuters, American intelligence agencies believe Iran’s leadership structure remains largely intact despite the military pressure.
Senior Iranian political and military leaders are reportedly still operational, and there is currently no indication that the country’s governing system is close to collapse.
Analysts say this gap between political messaging and intelligence assessments reflects the complex nature of the conflict. While Iranian military assets and logistical networks may have suffered damage, the country retains significant defensive capabilities and regional influence.
Iran’s leadership has also signalled that it is prepared for a prolonged confrontation. Officials in Tehran have warned that the conflict could evolve into a “war of attrition”, aiming to exhaust adversaries economically and politically rather than seeking a rapid military resolution.
Energy markets and global risks
The escalating conflict has already begun to ripple through global financial and energy markets. Disruptions to shipping routes and infrastructure across the Gulf region have raised concerns about potential supply shocks in oil and gas markets.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a key flashpoint, with several shipping companies reportedly diverting vessels due to security concerns. Any prolonged disruption to this strategic corridor could significantly affect global energy flows.
For international investors and policymakers, the uncertainty surrounding the duration and scale of the conflict remains one of the most significant geopolitical risks facing markets in 2026.
While Washington has suggested Iran’s position is weakening, intelligence assessments indicate that the conflict may still have a long and unpredictable trajectory.
Newshub Editorial in Asia – March 12, 2026
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