‘The End of the War Will Be Determined by Iran’s Strategy, Not Trump’s Illusions’

Tehran has stated that the Strait of Hormuz will remain open for global shipping but closed to Iran’s enemies. Supreme Leader advisor Ali Akbar Velayati said that the end of the war will be determined by Iran’s strategy rather than the “illusions” of its foes. “The war will end with Iran’s strategy and authority, not with the fantasies and illusions of the aggressors,” he said on X on Thursday (2/4/2026). The statement came hours after US President Donald Trump stated in a televised speech from the White House that Iran has only a few missile launchers left and that its ability to launch missiles and drones has been greatly reduced. Trump said he expects the war to continue for another two to three weeks but believes the conflict is nearing its end. On the other hand, Iran has maintained its control over the Strait of Hormuz—a strategic waterway for energy supplies to Asian countries. Tehran has allowed ships from several “friendly countries” to Iran to pass through Hormuz. Tensions in the Middle East have escalated since Israel and the US launched a joint attack on Iran on 28 February, resulting in more than 1,340 deaths, including Iran’s Supreme Leader at the time, Ali Khamenei. Iran then retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets. Iran’s attacks caused casualties and infrastructure damage, as well as disrupting global markets and aviation.