US President Donald Trump said the United States is thinking about reducing its military campaign against Iran. He made this statement as Iran and Israel continued exchanging attacks.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the US was close to achieving its goals.

"We are getting very close to meeting our objectives as we consider winding down our great Military efforts in the Middle East with respect to the Terrorist Regime of Iran," he said.

At the same time, US forces continued to move into the region. Marines and heavy landing equipment were deployed, although their exact mission remains unclear. This created mixed signals about US strategy.

Focus Shifts to Strait of Hormuz

Trump stressed that other countries should take responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route.

"The Hormuz Strait will have to be guarded and policed, as necessary, by other Nations who use it — The United States does not!" he said. "If asked, we ⁠will help these Countries in their Hormuz efforts, but it shouldn’t be necessary once Iran’s threat is eradicated."

The near closure of this route has raised fears of a global energy shock, as a large portion of the world’s oil passes through it.

Rising Death Toll and Growing Concerns

The conflict, which began on February 28, has already caused heavy losses. More than 2,000 people have died in Iran since US and Israeli strikes began.

At the same time, American citizens are becoming increasingly worried that the war could expand further.

Attack Reported on Natanz Nuclear Facility

Iranian media reported that the Natanz nuclear facility was attacked again on Saturday morning. The site is a key part of Iran’s nuclear programme.

However, technical experts confirmed that no radioactive leaks occurred. Nearby residents were reported to be safe. Israel said it had no knowledge of such an attack.

Israel Expands Strikes Across Region

Israel carried out multiple strikes inside Iran. These included targets in Tehran, Karaj, and Isfahan. In the city of Ramsar, a strike hit a residential building and killed three members of a family.

At the same time, Israel also launched attacks on Beirut. It said it was targeting Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran. Before the strikes, Israel issued evacuation warnings for several neighbourhoods in southern Beirut. The military later said four Hezbollah fighters were killed.

Heavy Impact on Lebanon

The conflict has severely affected Lebanon. More than 1,000 people have been killed, and over 1 million have been forced to leave their homes due to Israeli attacks.

Missile Threats Continue in Israel

Air raid sirens sounded across Israel as missiles were launched from Iran. Millions of people rushed to shelters while air defence systems intercepted incoming threats.

There were no immediate reports of casualties. Rescue teams were sent to areas where missiles may have landed.

Iran fired two ballistic missiles at the US-UK military base in Diego Garcia. However, the missiles did not hit the base.

Energy Crisis Deepens

The conflict has disrupted key energy infrastructure in Iran and nearby Gulf countries. As a result, oil prices have risen by around 50%. Natural gas prices in Europe also increased sharply. The European Union urged its member countries to reduce demand and refill gas reserves gradually.

The Strait of Hormuz, which carries about one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies, has seen most shipping come to a halt.

Global Response Remains Divided

Several US allies, including Japan, Canada, and European countries, have promised to support efforts to keep the Strait of Hormuz open. However, countries like Germany and France said the fighting must stop before any major action is taken.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said Iran is ready to allow Japanese ships to pass safely. Japan depends heavily on this route for its oil supply.

US Eases Oil Sanctions Temporarily

To increase supply and control prices, the US announced a temporary waiver on sanctions. This allows the sale of about 140 million barrels of Iranian oil already stored on tankers.

The US had earlier taken a similar step with Russian oil to stabilise global markets.

Leaders Send Strong Messages

Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei issued a strong message during Eid al-Fitr and Nowruz. He said Iranians had shown unity and resistance and "dealt a disorienting blow to the enemy".

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin sent greetings to Iran and reaffirmed support. However, reports suggest Iran has not received major practical help from Russia during the crisis.