Trump administration claims victory after Iran ceasefire

WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - A day after a two-week ceasefire with Iran went into effect, the White House said the 38-day conflict was a major defeat for the Iranian regime.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed at Wednesday’s press briefing that more than 13,000 targets across Iran were struck during the 38-day offensive the administration called “Operation Epic Fury.”

The ceasefire deal calls for the Strait of Hormuz to be reopened to all cargo ships.

Ahead of President Donald Trump’s meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Leavitt responded to a joint statement from NATO allies regarding the Strait of Hormuz.

“I have a direct quote from the president of the United States on NATO, and I will share it with all of you,” Leavitt said. “They were tested and they failed. And I would add, it’s quite sad that NATO turned their backs on the American people over the course of the last six weeks, when it’s the American people who have been defending their defense.”

The NATO allies’ joint statement said their governments would contribute to ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

When asked whether regime change in Iran has led to more freedoms for the Iranian people, Leavitt said it was too early to tell.

“I think that’s a question that’s being asked a little bit too early” Leavitt said “We hope that is the case, but it’s something that has yet to be seen.

Leavitt said U.S. military objectives were not only met but “exceeded,” rendering Iran unable to pursue nuclear weapons. Peace talks aimed at making a permanent peace deal are set to begin Friday in Pakistan.