Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israel and the United States are “winning” the ongoing war against Iran, asserting that the Islamic Republic has been significantly weakened in the nearly three-week conflict. Speaking during an English-language press conference on Thursday, March 19, Netanyahu claimed Iran had been “decimated” and no longer possesses the capability to enrich uranium or manufacture ballistic missiles.

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Netanyahu revealed that Israel independently carried out a strike on Iran’s South Pars gas field, while acknowledging that U.S. President Donald Trump later urged restraint on further attacks targeting such critical infrastructure. According to him, “President Trump asked us to hold off on future attacks and we’re holding off,” emphasizing that the U.S. leader’s decisions were made independently. “Does anyone really think that someone can tell President Trump what to do? He didn’t need any convincing,” Netanyahu added, while also highlighting the strong coordination between both leaders.

The Israeli leader further stated that the military campaign is focused on dismantling Iran’s missile production capabilities, insisting that key elements of the country’s military-industrial complex have already been hit. He also suggested internal tensions within Iran’s leadership, pointing to uncertainty around its command structure and possible power struggles following recent developments at the top.

Meanwhile, the conflict continues to impact global energy markets, particularly after Iran reportedly closed the Strait of Hormuz—a critical route for global oil shipments. Netanyahu dismissed the move as “blackmail,” insisting it would not succeed.

Despite the escalating situation, Netanyahu hinted that the war could end sooner than expected, stating that while more operations remain, there are signs the conflict may conclude faster than many anticipate.