Speaking at the White House’s Oval Office, President Donald Trump said, “We’ll be leaving very soon,” adding that the withdrawal could happen “within two weeks, maybe two, maybe three.” The remarks signal a possible near-term end to the conflict, which began after U.S. and allied strikes on Iran in late February.
The statement was Trump’s clearest indication yet that he intends to bring an end to the month-long war, which has significantly reshaped the Middle East, disrupted global energy markets, and impacted his presidency. The conflict has led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes, causing oil prices to surge above $100 per barrel and triggering global economic concerns.\
Also Read: Trump warns allies US will not defend them as Strait of Hormuz crisis deepens
Trump said that Iran does not need to reach an agreement with Washington for the conflict to end. Responding to questions about diplomacy, he made it clear that a formal deal is not a requirement for the United States to scale down its military operations.
Instead, Trump stressed that the key objective is to significantly weaken Iran’s military capabilities, particularly its ability to develop nuclear weapons. U.S. forces have already targeted missile sites and other strategic assets as part of this effort. Once these goals are achieved, he said, American troops would withdraw.