WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. President Donald Trump declared Tuesday night that American military operations in Iran are approaching their final phase, signaling that the conflict could soon come to a close after weeks of intense engagement.

Speaking from the White House, Trump said the United States has made decisive progress in neutralizing threats posed by the Iranian regime, emphasizing that the mission to dismantle Iran’s nuclear ambitions and weaken its military capabilities is largely being achieved.

He indicated that the war could end even sooner if Iran chooses to come to the negotiating table, though he stressed that U.S. objectives will be met regardless of Tehran’s response.

The president pointed to significant damage inflicted on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, missile systems, and regional proxy networks. He reiterated that a central goal of the campaign has been to ensure Iran can never obtain a nuclear weapon — a line he said the United States has now effectively enforced through sustained military pressure.

Trump framed the conflict as a long-overdue response to decades of Iranian aggression, including attacks on U.S. forces and support for militant groups across the Middle East. However, his remarks notably shifted toward closure, highlighting what he described as a “decisive turning point” in the campaign.

While acknowledging the risks and sacrifices involved, Trump said the operation has been carried out with a long-term vision of security and stability. He praised U.S. service members and expressed confidence that their efforts have reshaped the strategic landscape in the region.

In a direct message to the Iranian people, Trump suggested that the weakening of the regime could open the door to a new future, while urging civilians to remain cautious as operations conclude.

The president’s comments mark the clearest indication yet that the administration is preparing for the end of active combat operations, even as U.S. forces remain engaged in final efforts to secure lasting outcomes.

President Donald Trump has discussed with senior advisers the possibility of withdrawing the United States from NATO if European allies fail to assist in reopening the strategic Strait of Hormuz, according to U.S. officials, signaling mounting strain within the decades-old alliance.

While no formal decision has been made, Trump has reportedly explored options ranging from a full withdrawal to scaling back America’s commitment to NATO. The discussions come as the administration presses European nations to take a more active role in securing the vital shipping corridor amid the ongoing conflict with Iran.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that the administration may reassess NATO’s value following the war, underscoring growing frustration in Washington over what officials describe as insufficient allied support.

European leaders, however, have pushed back sharply. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reportedly rejected Trump’s request for assistance, criticizing the administration’s approach and warning that transatlantic relations are being strained. French President Emmanuel Macron also confirmed France would not participate in the U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran.

U.S. officials argue such moves undermine alliance unity at a critical moment. Despite tensions, NATO countries continue to play a key logistical role, hosting U.S. aircraft, facilitating refueling operations, and supporting regional defense efforts. The United Kingdom, in particular, has enabled long-range bombing missions and expanded its military presence in the Middle East.

Any U.S. move to withdraw from NATO would face significant legal hurdles, requiring congressional approval. Analysts warn such a step could destabilize the post-World War II security framework and weaken Western coordination amid ongoing global conflicts.

The alliance’s core principle of collective defense — enshrined in Article V — has long served as a cornerstone of Western unity. However, Trump’s remarks highlight a growing divide, as the administration questions whether NATO allies are willing to stand alongside the United States in times of conflict.

The United Arab Emirates is preparing to assist the United States and allied nations in reopening the Strait of Hormuz by force, marking a significant strategic shift that could make it the first Persian Gulf state to formally enter the conflict against Iran, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Emirati leaders are reportedly lobbying for a United Nations Security Council resolution that would authorize military action to secure the vital waterway, a key artery for global energy supplies. Officials said the U.A.E. is urging Western and Asian powers to form a coalition capable of clearing mines and ensuring safe passage for commercial shipping through the strait.

The move comes after a sharp escalation in Iranian attacks on the Emirates. In recent days, Iran launched nearly 50 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones at the country, part of a broader campaign that has included approximately 2,500 projectiles since the conflict began. Tehran has warned it would target critical infrastructure in any Gulf nation supporting efforts to challenge its control over the region.

Despite historically maintaining a cautious and economically intertwined relationship with Iran, the U.A.E. now appears to be aligning more closely with President Trump’s call for regional allies to take a greater role in confronting Tehran. Gulf officials said the shift reflects growing alarm over Iran’s willingness to destabilize the region, including strikes on civilian targets such as airports and hotels in Dubai.

Bahrain is sponsoring the proposed U.N. resolution, with a vote expected soon, though opposition from Russia and China could block authorization. Even without formal approval, officials indicated the U.A.E. may still participate in a coalition effort to reopen the strait.

Military analysts caution that such an operation would be complex, potentially requiring control of both the waterway and surrounding territory. However, Gulf states backing the initiative believe the long-term risk of allowing Iran to dominate the strait outweighs the dangers of direct military engagement.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global oil and trade flows, and any sustained disruption threatens to send shockwaves through the world economy, further raising the stakes in an already volatile conflict.

The prospect of the United Arab Emirates — an Islamic nation — aligning itself with the United States and Israel underscores the rapidly shifting dynamics of the Middle East in ways few could have imagined just years ago. Long defined by deep political, religious, and regional divides, the emerging alignment reflects a new reality driven less by historical loyalties and more by shared strategic threats, particularly from Iran.

This realignment signals a profound reshaping of the geopolitical landscape — one that continues to accelerate as the conflict with Iran draws toward what the White House hopes will be a decisive conclusion. For students of biblical prophecy and those who follow the intersection of faith and world events, the speed and scope of these changes invite careful, prayerful attention.

Faith & Freedom News will continue to provide exclusive, in-depth coverage as this story develops.