TEHRAN, IRAN March 10, 2026 – In a bold rebuke to US President Donald Trump, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared that it alone will determine the conclusion of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The statement, issued through state media, intensifies the standoff as military operations continue into their second week.
The IRGC’s response came directly after Trump suggested during a news conference that the war could end “pretty quickly,” while emphasizing that the US “hasn’t won enough” and is pursuing “ultimate victory.” “It is we who will determine the end of the war,” the IRGC asserted, adding that “the equations and future status of the region are now in the hands of our armed forces; American forces will not end the war.” An IRGC spokesperson dismissed Trump’s comments as “nonsense,” affirming that Iran’s forces remain fully operational and prepared to sustain the fight.
The conflict erupted on February 28, 2026, when US and Israeli forces launched “Operation Epic Fury,” a coordinated assault on Iranian targets, including leadership sites. Reports indicate the strikes resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, prompting vows of severe retaliation from Tehran. Iran responded with missile barrages targeting US bases in the region and Israeli territory, leading to casualties on both sides, including American troops. Trump has repeatedly called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” warning that failure to comply could lead to “complete destruction” of key Iranian assets.
Iranian officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, have rejected any notion of capitulation, stating that Tehran will not attack neighboring countries unless provoked but reserves the right to defend itself aggressively. The IRGC’s latest declaration echoes this defiance, with one official noting, “We are continuing the war with full strength, and it is Iran who will determine when the war ends.” Iranian state media reports losses for US and Israeli forces, including damaged ships, airfields, and personnel, though these claims remain unverified by independent sources.
Trump’s administration has described the campaign as a success, claiming it has degraded Iran’s military capabilities and prevented further aggression toward Israel. In a recent statement, Trump urged the IRGC and Iranian military to “lay down your arms or face certain death,” while expressing a desire to avoid prolonged occupation but insisting on regime change driven by the Iranian people. Critics, including Iranian National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani, have accused Trump of prioritizing Israeli interests over American ones, dubbing his policy “Israel First.”
Regional allies have weighed in variably. Qatar reported incoming missiles from Iran, while Russia and China have condemned the US-led strikes without offering mediation. Diplomatic efforts appear stalled, with Iran’s Foreign Minister ruling out talks amid ongoing hostilities.
As the situation evolves, global markets remain volatile, with oil prices fluctuating amid threats to regional exports. Analysts warn that without de-escalation, the conflict could expand, drawing in more stakeholders and prolonging instability in the Middle East.
This development was first highlighted in a post by BRICS News on X, underscoring the rapid dissemination of geopolitical updates in real-time. Life News Agency will continue monitoring the situation for further updates.
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