US President Donald Trump is set to address the nation on the conflict with Iran at 21:00 on 1/4 (8:00 today, Hanoi time). This marks his first significant national address on the escalating tensions since the US and Israel initiated attacks on Iran on 28/2.

The upcoming speech follows recent signals from President Trump indicating a desire to reach an agreement with Tehran. US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth echoed the gravity of the situation, stating that "the coming days will be decisive." However, a senior Iranian official has already downplayed the event's significance, asserting that the US President's remarks "are not a reliable basis" for assessing the current situation.

US President Donald Trump at the White House on 31/3. *Photo: AFP*

Following the US-Israel attacks on 28/2, Iran launched a retaliatory campaign. Tehran targeted military sites and energy infrastructure across the Middle East with missiles and drones. Additionally, Iran imposed a near-complete blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which approximately 20% of the world's crude oil passes. Iran has stated that "non-hostile vessels" can navigate the strait if they coordinate with Tehran and adhere to published security regulations.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 3,000 fatalities across the Middle East, primarily in Iran and Lebanon.

By Huyen Le (AFP, CNN)