Trump declares Iran war 'effectively over' after eight-month conflict

President Donald Trump declared Monday that US military action in Iran is "militarily, effectively over," signaling Washington is unlikely to resume large-scale attacks for now, while warning American forces remain "locked and loaded" if circumstances change. The declaration follows eight months of conflict beginning February 28 with Operation Epic Fury, nearly 900 US-Israeli airstrikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader, and subsequent Iranian retaliatory attacks on regional bases and shipping. Multiple ceasefire attempts and negotiations failed throughout the year, with the naval blockade on Iranian ports reinstated in July. Trump's statement comes after the Republican Party lost control of both congressional chambers in November 3 midterm elections, which Trump and Vice-President JD Vance attributed to public opposition to the prolonged war and its impact on energy prices.