From the Liveblog of
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
White House claims two-week ceasefire with Iran as ‘a victory for the United States’
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleJacob Magid is The Times of Israel's US bureau chief
The White House asserts that the announcement of a two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran is a victory for Washington.
“This is a victory for the United States that President Trump and our incredible military made happen,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt says in a statement.
“From the very beginning of Operation Epic Fury, President Trump estimated this would be a 4-6 week operation,” she says. “Thanks to the unbelievable capabilities of our warriors, we have achieved and exceeded our core military objectives in 38 days.”
“The success of our military created maximum leverage, allowing President Trump and the team to engage in tough negotiations that have now created an opening for a diplomatic solution and long-term peace,” Leavitt adds.
“Additionally, President Trump got the Strait of Hormuz reopened,” she says.
The channel was open before the war started, though, and Iran now says safe passage must be coordinated with its forces.
“Never underestimate President Trump’s ability to successfully advance America’s interests and broker peace,” Leavitt says.
The Times of Israel Community.