US Claims 'Victory' in Iran War After 15,000 Strikes; Top Leader 'Likely Disfigured,' Says Pentagon

United States - Ekhbary News Agency

US Declares 'Victory' in Iran Conflict Following Extensive Strikes; Questions Raised on New Leader's Condition

In a significant escalation of rhetoric, US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth asserted that American and Israeli forces have achieved substantial success in their conflict with Iran, reporting that over 15,000 strikes have been conducted against targets within the country. Speaking at a press briefing, Hegseth detailed a dramatic decline in Tehran's military prowess, stating that Iran's missile inventory has fallen by 90% and the deployment of one-way attack drones has plummeted by 95% since the war began. He further claimed that Iran is no longer capable of manufacturing additional weaponry and is relying solely on its remaining munitions.

Adding a controversial dimension to the briefing, Hegseth addressed a recent public statement by Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, which called for national unity. Hegseth dismissed the address as "weak" and controversially suggested that Khamenei himself is "wounded and likely disfigured." This assertion comes against the backdrop of the previous Supreme Leader, Khamenei's father, being killed on the initial day of what the new leader characterized as an unprovoked US-Israeli assault.

The Secretary of War also commented on ongoing discussions regarding the potential US Navy escort for oil tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz. He indicated that Washington is actively evaluating its options, describing the strategic waterway as a "tactically complex environment." These remarks come amid heightened global anxiety over potential disruptions to oil supplies and sustained volatility in energy markets.

In a move that has drawn international attention, the US Treasury Department has temporarily lifted sanctions on Russian oil shipments that were loaded onto tankers prior to March 12. This partial waiver is reported to cover approximately 100 million barrels of oil, according to Kirill Dmitriev, an aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin and CEO of a major sovereign wealth fund. Despite efforts by the US administration to stabilize markets, Brent crude futures have remained volatile, trading above the $100 per barrel mark.

The developments unfolded as Iranian officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian and Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani, participated in the annual Quds Day rally in Tehran. Foreign Minister Sayed Abbas Araghchi was also present, sharing footage from the event on social media with a message stating, "Iranians will ALWAYS stand firm and NEVER cower before cowardly attacks." The rally, which advocates for Palestine and opposes Israeli control of Jerusalem, was reportedly targeted by US and Israeli airstrikes, with at least one missile striking near the demonstration, resulting in one reported fatality.

In parallel diplomatic efforts, Iran has reportedly granted India safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as confirmed by Tehran's ambassador to New Delhi, Mohammad Fathali. Furthermore, France and Italy are said to be in negotiations with Iran to secure guarantees for the safe passage of their vessels through the vital chokepoint, according to reports citing sources familiar with the discussions. This comes despite previous statements from French Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin ruling out the deployment of French naval assets to the strait.

US President Donald Trump has also weighed in, confirming the US Navy's readiness to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz if necessary. He encouraged oil tanker operators to proceed, asserting that there is "nothing to be afraid of" and that Iran's naval capabilities have been neutralized. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent echoed these sentiments, telling Sky News that some ships are already navigating the strait, suggesting it is not mined, and expressing confidence that the US Navy, possibly with an international coalition, will provide escorts as soon as militarily feasible.

Meanwhile, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi highlighted ongoing concerns regarding Iran's nuclear program, citing restrictions on inspections and a significant accumulation of weapons-grade uranium. Grossi emphasized the need for transparency and credible assurances from Tehran to alleviate international worries.

In Europe, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz strongly criticized the US decision to temporarily ease sanctions on Russian oil, demanding an explanation and arguing that the global market faces a price issue, not a supply shortage. Similarly, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere voiced opposition to lifting energy sanctions on Russia.

In a separate incident, Israel carried out an airstrike on a residential area in Saida, southern Lebanon. RT correspondents reported on the aftermath, with eyewitnesses describing multiple Israeli aircraft strikes on the al-Hibba neighborhood, which was engulfed in smoke.

Ekhbary News Agency