Trump Vows US Forces Will 'Finish the Job' in Iran

President makes first prime-time speech since leaving office, defends ongoing military operations.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 5:35pm

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In his first national address since leaving the presidency, Donald Trump declared that U.S. forces will soon 'finish the job' in Iran as 'core strategic objectives are nearing completion.' The former president offered a full-throated defense of the ongoing military operations in the region.

Why it matters

Trump's prime-time speech marks his first major public appearance since leaving office and provides insight into his continued influence over the Republican party and its foreign policy agenda, even after his presidency.

The details

During the address, Trump claimed that U.S. forces are making significant progress towards their objectives in Iran and will soon complete their mission. He provided few specifics on the current military operations or timeline for withdrawal, but struck a defiant tone in defending the administration's actions.

  • Trump delivered the prime-time address on April 2, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who is making his first major public appearance since leaving office.

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What they’re saying

“U.S. forces will 'finish the job' in Iran soon as core strategic objectives are nearing completion.”

— Donald Trump, Former President

The takeaway

Trump's prime-time address underscores his continued influence within the Republican party and his hawkish foreign policy views, which could shape the party's agenda going forward.