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Trump says Iran war progressing ‘swimmingly’, could end very soon

US President Donald Trump has said that the war in Iran is progressing “swimmingly” and could “end pretty soon.”

Updated on: Apr 17, 2026, 08:01:12 IST
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US President Donald Trump has said that the war in Iran is progressing “swimmingly” and could “end pretty soon.”

Donald Trump made the remarks at an event in Las Vegas, Nevada. (REUTERS)

Speaking at an event in Las Vegas, Nevada, Trump struck a confident note on the trajectory of the conflict, suggesting that a resolution may be imminent even as negotiations continue behind the scenes.

"And I said, we're in there for two months, and you know what? We're gonna have victory very shortly," he said.

He described Iran as a "tough, smart country" while asserting that its military capacity had been severely reduced.

"And against a very tough, smart country. These people were fighters, and you know, I don't want to claim it before the fact, but they (Iran) have no Navy left. 158 ships at the bottom of the sea. 158, think of it," Trump said.

The remarks build on statements he made just two days earlier, on April 15, when he indicated that the nearly seven-week-long war could be “very close to over” and hinted that talks with Iran may resume within days. In separate media interviews, Trump suggested that extending the current ceasefire — set to expire next week — might not be necessary, raising expectations of a breakthrough.

Diplomatic momentum appears to be picking up after an initial round of talks in Pakistan ended without agreement. Officials have indicated that both sides are working to schedule a second round soon, with back-channel discussions in recent days reportedly narrowing key differences.

However, major hurdles remain - particularly over Iran’s nuclear programme. The United States has pushed for a long-term suspension of uranium enrichment and the removal of existing stockpiles, while Iran has resisted sweeping concessions. The issue remains central to any potential agreement.

Tensions have also been exacerbated by the ongoing standoff in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy corridor. Iran’s restrictions on shipping and the US naval response have disrupted oil flows, adding urgency to diplomatic efforts.

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