The United States has fully defeated Iran, US President Donald Trump celebrated during his speech at the Salute to America Celebration on the country’s 250th anniversary.
He also lauded the US for destroying Iran’s entire naval force “in a moment,” consisting of 159 Iranian ships.
“We rebuilt our military in my first term,” Trump declared, “We used it a little bit in my – I should say third time, but I won’t because of the controversy.”
Trump also proudly praised the United States for its role on the global stage.
“For 250 years, the United States of America has been the hope, the promise, the light, and the glory among all of the nations of the world,” he proclaimed. “Tonight, our country is stronger, freer, richer, safer, and prouder than ever before.”
250th US anniversary speech began after storm-related delay
Trump gave the campaign-style speech marking the country’s 250th anniversary at the National Mall in Washington after a storm-related delay.
The US-Iran war, which began on February 28, 2026, led to the immediate closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN), a waterway that carries a significant portion of the world’s seaborne oil trade.
According to the White House, US forces used air and naval superiority to wipe out Iran’s naval infrastructure. US airstrikes and cruise missiles rapidly destroyed an estimated 155 to 159 Iranian naval vessels.
Reuters contributed to this report
