President Donald Trump briefly pivoted from celebrating women’s achievements to the ongoing military campaign against Iran during a White House event marking Women’s History Month on Thursday, describing the situation in the Middle East as “moving along very rapidly” and asserting that Iran is “paying a big price” for its actions.
Speaking in the East Room alongside First Lady Melania Trump, the president highlighted the U.S. military’s role in the joint U.S.-Israel operation, which he has repeatedly characterized as a short-term effort aimed at neutralizing Iran’s nuclear capabilities and regional influence.
“The situation with Iran is moving along very rapidly. It’s doing very well,” Trump said.
“Our military is unsurpassed. Has never been anything like it. Nobody’s ever seen anything like it. And we’re doing what has to be done.”
He added that action against Iran “should have been done during a 47-year period” by previous administrations, labeling the country as “a nation of terror and hate.”
The remarks come amid escalating tensions in the region, where U.S. and Israeli forces have conducted targeted strikes since the conflict’s outbreak earlier this year.
Trump has not specified a timeline for the operation’s conclusion, despite claims of imminent victory. In recent days, he has suggested the U.S. has “won” the war, touting strikes on Iranian infrastructure, including a controversial operation that targeted a girls’ school in Iran, resulting in over 165 deaths, an incident Trump attributed to Iranian responsibility without providing evidence.
Critics, including international observers, have raised concerns about civilian casualties and the humanitarian impact, with reports of over 175 fatalities in the school strike alone.
Trump’s comments also touched on broader implications, including Iran’s potential participation in global events.
Earlier this week, he questioned whether Iran‘s national soccer team should attend the 2026 World Cup, citing safety concerns and describing the nation as “very badly defeated” and “running on fumes.” This follows Tehran’s announcement of withdrawal from the tournament amid the conflict.
