President Donald Trump held the 11th cabinet meeting of his second term on Thursday, focusing extensively on the ongoing war with Iran that began nearly a month ago. Speaking for much of the 1 hour and 40 minute session, Trump stated that Iranian leaders have been "decisively defeated" and are "begging to make a deal, not me."

Trump highlighted recent allowances by Iran for 10 oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz as a "gift" worth a "tremendous amount of money," noting that the vessels went "right up the middle of the strait." He described U.S. military operations as "extremely ahead of schedule," praising American forces for superior equipment that Iranian defenses cannot counter. "They are lousy fighters but great negotiators," Trump said, adding that Iran should have sought terms earlier.

The meeting marked Trump's first cabinet gathering since U.S. and Israeli forces launched strikes on February 28, killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and top officials. Those operations, dubbed Operation Epic Fury by the U.S., targeted nuclear sites, missile facilities, and military leadership amid failed negotiations. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on U.S. bases, Israel, and Gulf allies, partially closing the Strait of Hormuz and disrupting global oil flows.

U.S. objectives include preventing nuclear weapon development, dismantling Iran's navy and missile programs, and supporting regime change through the Iranian opposition. Trump reiterated goals of no nukes, no navy, and no missile capabilities, calling the effort a "pure American success." Casualties remain low for U.S. forces at 13 killed and 291 wounded, compared to thousands reported in Iran.

Amid the discussion, Trump noted a 15-point U.S. peace plan delivered via Pakistani mediators, which Iran publicly rejected but engaged indirectly. He threatened strikes on Iranian power plants starting Monday unless the strait fully reopens, though he indicated flexibility based on talks. Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized U.S. options for Iran's military degradation, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio attended.

The war has driven oil prices above $100 per barrel, raising fertilizer costs for U.S. farmers and prompting Trump to announce aid measures on Friday. Iranian state media dismissed the negotiations as a deception, while Trump envoy Steve Witkoff reported signs of progress. Israeli strikes killed Iran's navy commander Alireza Tangsiri, further weakening Tehran's forces.

No immediate ceasefire emerged, but Trump projected confidence in an imminent resolution on U.S. terms as operations continue.