With tensions escalating between Iran, Israel and the US, many are asking how long American forces are expected to remain engaged.
In the early hours of February 28, the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran’s capital, Tehran, as well as other locations across the country.
Iran has since reported 555 deaths and hundreds more injured, including claims that 180 of those killed were at a girl’s elementary school.
The campaign — described as ‘Operation Epic Fury’ — was presented as an effort to hit Iran’s nuclear programme and eliminate parts of its ballistic missile capability.
After the initial attacks, Iran responded with missile and drone launches toward neighbouring countries, with US bases among the reported targets.
Donald Trump addressed the situation at the White House on March 2, offering a clearer sense of the potential timeframe for the operation.
While paying tribute to the four US service members killed so far, Trump said the military effort is progressing faster than first anticipated.
He said: “In their memory we continue this mission with ferocious, unyielding resolve to crush the threat this terrorist regime imposes on American people.”
Trump added that the US is already “substantially ahead” of earlier estimates. He said the initial expectation was four to five weeks, though he also stressed the US has the “capability to go far longer”.
In earlier comments, however, Trump had offered fewer specifics on how long strikes would continue.
Speaking from his Mar-a-Lago residence, he said: “As one nation, we grieve for the true American patriots who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, even as we continue the righteous mission for which they gave their lives.
“We pray for the full recovery of the wounded and send our immense love and eternal gratitude to the families of the fallen. And sadly, there will likely be more before it ends. That’s the way it is. Likely be more.
“We’ll do everything possible where that won’t be the case, but America will avenge their deaths and deliver the most punishing blow to the terrorists who have waged war against, basically, civilization.
“Combat operations continue at this time in full force, and they will continue until all of our objectives are achieved.”
He also said the US has “strong objectives,” though he did not spell out what those goals are.