In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East, U.S. President Donald Trump warned that American forces could push Iran “back to the Stone Ages” if the conflict intensifies.

The statement came during his first prime-time address to the American public since the outbreak of the current confrontation with Iran.

Speaking from the White House, Trump said the United States would strike Iran “extremely hard over the next two to three weeks” if Tehran continues its hostile actions. He added that Washington’s core military and strategic objectives in the war are “nearing completion,” signaling that the U.S. believes it has already achieved significant operational success.

The speech immediately triggered turbulence in global markets. Oil prices surged sharply amid fears that the conflict could disrupt energy supplies from the Gulf region, while stock markets across Asia recorded notable declines as investors reacted to the growing geopolitical uncertainty.

Iranian officials responded swiftly and forcefully. Leaders in Tehran warned of “crushing attacks” against both the United States and Israel if further military action is taken against Iran.

The statements indicate that the conflict could widen and draw additional regional actors into the confrontation.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are intensifying. The United Kingdom has announced that it will host a virtual meeting involving representatives from more than 30 countries to discuss measures aimed at safeguarding international shipping and potentially reopening the vital Strait of Hormuz.

The narrow waterway is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, through which a large share of global oil exports passes.