Trump Suggests Iran War Nearing End as U.S. Bases Show Significant Damage

President Donald Trump stated that Iran is open to reaching a deal to end the ongoing conflict, signaling potential de-escalation ahead of next week's UN General Assembly. "Hopefully, we're toward the end of the war," Trump told reporters on Wednesday, adding, "They want to make a deal." He emphasized that the U.S. is communicating directly with Iranian officials, rejecting the notion of third-party mediation.

These remarks coincide with the release of photographic evidence obtained by ABC News and CBS News showing significant damage to U.S. military bases in the Middle East, a stark contrast to the administration's public assessments of the conflict's impact.

The images depict damaged buildings and aircraft at key U.S. military hubs in Kuwait and a Saudi base. Some facilities were reportedly evacuated due to incoming threats. US Central Command reported strikes against American bases in eight countries, including Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Oman, and Jordan, according to a Defense Department inspector general's report on Operation Epic Fury. Equipment losses were estimated to be as high as $3.7 billion, including nearly 60 aircraft.

While the administration has highlighted the effects of U.S. strikes on Iran, less transparency has been provided regarding damage sustained by American personnel and installations. Trump has previously characterized the operation as necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, asserting that Iranian forces have suffered extensive losses. He wrote on Truth Social last month that "Iran is officially a Failed Nation" with no significant naval or air force and leadership in "total disarray."

However, the newly disclosed photographs suggest a different picture of the conflict's toll. U.S. facilities in other regional locations have also sustained considerable damage. CBS News reported that Iranian strikes against Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan damaged multiple American aircraft, including an A-10 Thunderbolt that lost a wing. Approximately eight F-15 fighter jets reportedly suffered less severe damage and were returned to service.

Despite these revelations, Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have consistently emphasized the success of the U.S. campaign and its defensive capabilities.

Regional security remains a concern, with U.S. naval forces conducting patrols near the Strait of Hormuz amid advancing Houthi troops in Yemen, which raises further fears over global supply lines. The Pentagon did not immediately respond to requests for comment.