US President Donald Trump has indicated that American military operations in Iran could end within weeks, suggesting that Washington is nearing the conclusion of its campaign even without a formal agreement with Tehran.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said the United States would be “leaving very soon,” outlining a tentative timeline of “within two weeks, maybe two weeks, maybe three.” He added that US forces were “finishing the job” before withdrawing.
The remarks come just a day ahead of his address, where the White House said he will share a ‘significant update’ on the Iran war.
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The fresh comments mark a significant shift in tone amid the ongoing war, which began on February 28 and has triggered widespread instability across the Middle East. Despite earlier threats of escalation, the US president now appears to be signalling an exit strategy.
“All I have to do is leave Iran, and we’ll be doing that very soon, and they’ll come tumbling down,” Trump said, linking a potential withdrawal to easing global fuel prices.
Exit not tied to Iran deal
Trump also clarified that a diplomatic agreement with Iran is not a prerequisite for ending US operations. “They don’t have to make a deal with me,” he said, adding that the withdrawal decision would be based on whether Iran is sufficiently weakened in its nuclear capabilities.
“When we feel that they are… put into the stone ages and they won’t be able to come up with a nuclear weapon, then we’ll leave,” he said, underscoring a military-first approach rather than a negotiated settlement.
Mixed signals as war continues
Trump’s comments come even as military activity continues across the Middle East. Explosions were reported in Tehran on Wednesday, while Iranian-linked attacks targeted infrastructure in Gulf countries, including a drone strike that caused a fire at Kuwait’s main airport.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high with US allies. Trump has urged countries dependent on oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz to “get your own oil,” signalling a reduced American role in securing global energy routes.
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US defence secretary Pete Hegseth echoed the president’s stance, calling the coming days “decisive” while not ruling out further military steps before any withdrawal.
Divergence with Israel and Iran?
Trump’s proposed timeline also highlights a growing divergence with Benjamin Netanyahu, who has vowed to continue Israel’s military campaign against Iran.
“The campaign is not over… we will continue to crush the terror regime,” Netanyahu said, indicating that Israel may press ahead even if the US scales back its involvement.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said Tehran has the “necessary will” to end the war, provided guarantees are in place to prevent further escalation.
