-Friday World – March 18, 2026
Ghalibaf's Direct Quote & Mockery "Trump boasted that he had defeated us nine times in two weeks – this is laughable!" Ghalibaf declared. "His intention was to win in 72 hours. Today the result is clear: we have obliterated their bases in the Middle East. Trump is so desperate that he fabricates new lies daily." He described Trump's repeated claims of "total destruction" of Iran's military as "absurd propaganda" that no longer fools anyone.
Iran's Claim: Heavy Damage to U.S. Bases Iran continues to assert that its missile and drone barrages have inflicted massive damage on dozens of U.S. installations, including:
- The Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain
- Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar
- Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia
- Facilities in Kuwait and the UAE
Iranian media and IRGC statements report at least 17 U.S. sites hit, with air-defense systems, communication networks, and diplomatic compounds among the hardest struck. Thousands of ballistic missiles and drones were reportedly used in retaliatory waves.
Strait of Hormuz Under Iranian Control The most critical development, according to Ghalibaf, is Iran's effective domination of the Strait of Hormuz. By laying mines and launching repeated attacks, Iran has halted commercial shipping through the chokepoint that carries roughly 20% of global oil. "This is a strategic victory," he said. "America is now busy trying to save its own bases instead of projecting power."
Trump's Failed Calls for Help Despite Trump's repeated public statements that "America needs no one's help" and "we are enough alone," reality tells a different story. He appealed to more than 32 countries—including NATO allies, Japan, Australia, South Korea, and various European nations—for warships to reopen the Strait.
- Germany bluntly replied: "This is not our war."
- France, Britain, and others refused military involvement.
Trump warned on Truth Social that NATO faces a "very bad future" if allies do not assist, yet no meaningful commitments materialized.
Trump's Shifting Statements Expose Panic Ghalibaf highlighted Trump's inconsistent messaging as proof of desperation:
- First: "Iran's military is completely destroyed."
- Then: "We don't need anyone's help."
- Later: "The world must handle Hormuz."
"He no longer knows what to say or what not to say," Ghalibaf remarked. "His statements keep changing because the situation is slipping out of his control."
Domestic Backlash in the United States Opposition to Trump's Iran policy is growing rapidly inside the U.S. Democratic leaders like Chuck Schumer have accused him of "flailing" – launching a war without proper planning and now failing at damage control. Polls show only about 25% of Americans support the conflict. Skyrocketing oil prices (above $100/barrel), rising inflation, and fears of recession are fueling public anger and political pressure.
Iran's Strategic Gains & Regional Support Iran insists its strikes have significantly weakened U.S. forward presence. The IRGC claims thousands of missiles were successfully launched, maintaining control over key maritime routes. Ghalibaf predicted a "new Middle East order" after the war, one in which American military dominance ends. Iran has also received backing from regional allies in Iraq, Yemen (Houthis), Lebanon (Hezbollah), and Syria.
Global Fallout: Oil Crisis & Nuclear Risk The prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz has sent oil prices soaring and disrupted 80% of Asia's imports. Energy analysts warn that if the blockade lasts months, prices could reach $150–200 per barrel, triggering a global recession. Experts increasingly caution about the risk of nuclear escalation if the conflict drags on. Contrary to Trump's "72-hour victory" promise, the war has now entered its third week with no clear end in sight.
Bottom Line Speaker Ghalibaf's statement directly challenges Trump's victory narrative and portrays him as increasingly isolated and erratic. Whether Iran's claims of "destroying all U.S. bases" hold up under scrutiny or not, the optics are clear: Trump is struggling to maintain a coherent story while facing rejection from allies, domestic criticism, and a worsening economic fallout. The Hormuz crisis deepens by the day – and the world watches nervously.
Sajjadali Nayani ✍
Friday World – March 18, 2026
