Washington – The United States could potentially end its military operations against Iran within the next two to three weeks, President Donald Trump indicated Tuesday, in a surprising shift that suggests a possible de-escalation of the month-long conflict. The President also stated that a formal agreement with Tehran is not a prerequisite for winding down what his administration has termed “Operation Epic Fury.” The announcement comes amid growing international concern over the war’s impact on global energy markets and regional stability.
The President’s comments, delivered during a White House press briefing, appeared to contradict earlier statements from his administration, which had insisted on a 15-point ceasefire framework as a condition for halting military action. That framework included demands that Iran verifiably commit to abandoning its nuclear program, cease uranium enrichment and fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane. The Strait of Hormuz has long been a critical element of Iran’s defense strategy, and its control remains a key point of contention.
“We’ll be leaving remarkably soon,” Trump told reporters. “Within two weeks, maybe two weeks, maybe three.” When pressed on whether diplomatic progress was necessary for a withdrawal, he was unequivocal: “Iran doesn’t have to produce a deal, no. No, they don’t have to make a deal with me.” The White House later announced that Trump would address the nation at 2 a.m. Irish time Wednesday to provide further details on the situation.
TUNE IN: Tomorrow night at 9PM ET, President Trump will give an Address to the Nation to provide an vital update on Iran.
— Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) March 31, 2026
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed the President’s sentiment, stating that although talks are ongoing and “gaining strength,” the US remains prepared to continue military action if necessary. “We have more and more options, and they have less… in only one month we set the terms, the upcoming days will be decisive,” Hegseth said in Washington. Though, he also acknowledged the potential for a negotiated resolution to end the war, which has already claimed thousands of lives and disrupted global supply chains.
Escalating Tensions and Regional Fallout
The conflict, now in its fifth week, has expanded beyond direct US-Iran clashes, drawing in regional actors and exacerbating existing tensions. Israel has carried out multiple strikes targeting Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, resulting in at least seven deaths and 24 injuries in the Beirut area, according to the Lebanese health ministry. Israeli military officials stated the strikes targeted senior Hezbollah commanders, though confirmation of casualties remains unconfirmed.
Meanwhile, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards have threatened to target 18 US companies operating in the region, including tech giants Microsoft, Google, Apple, Intel, IBM, Tesla, and Boeing, beginning at 8 p.m. Tehran time (4:30 p.m. Irish time). Trump dismissed the threat, stating, “They don’t have much left to threaten.”
Indirect communication channels between Washington and Tehran remain open, according to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, who stated he has been receiving messages from US special envoy Steve Witkoff. However, Araqchi characterized these exchanges as “threats or exchanged views delivered through ‘friends’” rather than formal negotiations, as reported by Qatar’s Al Jazeera TV.
Global Economic Impact and Allied Divisions
The war’s impact is being felt globally, particularly in energy markets. The US national average retail price of gasoline has surpassed $4 a gallon for the first time since August 2022, according to Gas Buddy data, adding to inflationary pressures and raising concerns about a potential recession. The conflict is also causing significant turbulence in the aviation industry due to rerouting and increased fuel costs.
A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates that two-thirds of Americans believe the US should prioritize ending its involvement in the war, even if it means not achieving all of the administration’s initial objectives. This growing public pressure may be contributing to the shift in tone from the White House.
The conflict has also exposed divisions among US allies. France and Italy have reportedly expressed reservations about certain US-Israeli military operations, highlighting strains within NATO. Trump, meanwhile, has publicly criticized countries that have not provided sufficient support to the US war effort, urging them to either purchase energy from the US or “go to the strait and just TAKE IT,” a reference to the Strait of Hormuz.
As the conflict continues, Pakistan is attempting to mediate a ceasefire, with the foreign ministers of China and Pakistan jointly calling for peace talks following a meeting in Beijing. US General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stated that US forces have struck over 150 Iranian naval vessels and continue to target key manufacturing and research sites.
The situation remains fluid and highly volatile. President Trump’s address to the nation, scheduled for Wednesday, is expected to provide further clarity on the administration’s plans and the potential path forward. The coming days will be critical in determining whether the US and Iran can de-escalate the conflict and avert a wider regional war.
If you are feeling anxious or overwhelmed by the news, resources are available. You can reach the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, or call the National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
The White House has indicated that further updates will be provided following the President’s address. Readers are encouraged to monitor official government channels for the latest information and to engage in respectful dialogue about this complex and evolving situation.
