“One way or the other, we win,” said US President Donald Trump regarding the ongoing conflict with Iran. He claimed on May 5, 2026, that the war could continue for another two to three weeks, even as he asserted victory.
Control of the Strait of Hormuz has become a central issue in this crisis. Iran has shown how it can use its control over this vital maritime route as an offensive weapon and a means to raise revenue. A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, but talks have failed to produce a lasting agreement.
The US military maintains that the ceasefire is still in place despite ongoing tensions. However, Iranian forces have fired at commercial vessels nine times and seized two container ships since the ceasefire began.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that Iran would face an overwhelming response if it attacked US troops or commercial shipping. General Dan Caine indicated that US forces are ready to resume major combat operations against Iran if ordered.
Key facts:
- The US military claims the ceasefire is still effective despite tensions.
- Iran has fired at commercial vessels nine times since April 8.
- Two container ships have been seized by Iran during this period.
No adversary should mistake current restraint for a lack of resolve, Caine added. The exact status of the ceasefire and whether it will hold amid ongoing tensions is unclear. Regional tensions have escalated since US and Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28.