Trump Declares Iran Defeated as Tehran Threatens to Reduce Oil Facilities to Ashes

President Trump declared Iran 'completely defeated' amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

“Paris, France (AFP) – Two weeks exactly after the start of the war in the Middle East, Donald Trump judged Iran to be 'completely defeated', but Tehran threatened Saturday to 'reduce to ashes' the energy infrastructure tied to the United States in the event of an attack on its main oil hub”

France 24

Trump made his victory claim on Truth Social, asserting that the media was spreading false information about excellent US military results.

France 24

The American president stated that Iran was 'totally defeated and wishes to conclude an agreement—but not an agreement I would accept!'

This announcement came exactly two weeks after the Israeli-American offensive in Iran on February 28 triggered the current conflict.

Both sides engaged in increasingly hostile rhetoric and military posturing as the situation deteriorated.

Iran responded with fierce threats to destroy US-linked energy infrastructure, specifically targeting Kharg Island.

The spokesperson for Khatam al-Anbiya, affiliated with Iran's Revolutionary Guards, issued a stark warning.

Paris Match

'All oil, economic, and energy facilities owned by regional oil companies partly owned by the United States or that cooperate with the United States will be immediately destroyed and reduced to ashes,' the Iranian spokesperson stated.

This threat directly followed Trump's announcement that he had 'completely destroyed' military targets on the strategic island.

The exchange of threats has created a dangerous standoff over one of Iran's most critical energy facilities.

NATO allies have largely refused to support US military operations to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

“bySophie Brams03/21/26 08:12 AM ET Sen”

The Hill

President Trump requested seven countries to send warships to help secure the vital waterway, but none have agreed to lend military assets.

Lindsey Graham urged Trump to consider removing US military bases from countries 'who won't let us fly from them.'

Graham called Spain's refusal 'an insult and an outrage' to the longstanding alliance.

The UK recently approved the use of UK military bases for 'defensive' strikes against Iranian missile sites.

Trump dismissed the UK's support as 'a very late response.'

This reluctance has highlighted deep divisions within NATO regarding how to respond to the escalating Middle East crisis.

The escalating conflict has severely disrupted global oil markets and caused significant economic repercussions worldwide.

Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted global oil deliveries and sent prices soaring.

France 24

The Strait of Hormuz handles about a fifth of the world's oil production.

The Hill reports that 'the continued Iranian blockade and escalating attacks on vessels and oil and gas facilities have rattled the global economy, sending fuel prices sharply higher.'

Trump has assured that the U.S. Navy would 'soon, very soon' begin escorting tankers through the strait.

The effectiveness of such measures remains uncertain amid the ongoing hostilities.

The United States is significantly increasing its military presence in the Middle East.

“The war in the Middle East continues with statements by Donald Trump, who claimed that Iran had been defeated while Tehran threatened to destroy energy infrastructure linked to the United States”

Paris Match

According to US press reports, the US will send approximately 2,500 Marines and three additional ships to the region.

Paris Match

The amphibious assault ship Tripoli, based in Japan, is among the reinforcements being deployed.

The military buildup comes as the conflict continues to escalate.

Reports indicate missiles have been intercepted in Qatar.

Both sides are preparing for potential further confrontations.

The increased US military presence suggests the Trump administration is prepared for a prolonged confrontation with Iran.