Washington/Tehran: President Donald Trump has indicated that the United States could wind down its military campaign against Iran within a matter of weeks, even as Iranian officials signal conditional willingness to end hostilities, raising the possibility that the five-week-old conflict in West Asia may be approaching a critical turning point.
The latest statements from Washington and Tehran underscore a rapidly evolving situation in which diplomacy, military operations, and geopolitical pressure are advancing in parallel, without a clear resolution in sight.
Trump Suggests Short Timeline for US Operations
Donald Trump said the United States could conclude its military operations within “two weeks, maybe three weeks,” suggesting that withdrawal decisions may not depend on a formal agreement with Tehran.
“Iran doesn’t have to make a deal,” he said, adding that Washington could pull back once it assesses that Iran’s nuclear capabilities have been sufficiently degraded. He also stated that the US is “finishing the job,” while indicating that a negotiated settlement is not a prerequisite for ending military engagement.
The White House has confirmed that Trump is expected to address the nation with an update on the conflict, underlining the significance of the current phase in the war’s trajectory.
The conflict began on February 28 following US and Israeli strikes on Iranian military and nuclear-related infrastructure under “Operation Epic Fury,” significantly escalating regional tensions.
Iran Signals Conditional Willingness for Ceasefire
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran is prepared to end the conflict, provided that “essential conditions” are met, particularly guarantees that future attacks will not be repeated.
“We possess the necessary will to end this conflict, provided that essential conditions are met, especially the guarantees required to prevent repetition of the aggression,” he said.
Iran has also reportedly put forward its own framework in response to a proposed US ceasefire plan, emphasizing binding assurances against renewed military action by the United States and Israel. However, Iranian officials maintain that current communications with Washington do not yet amount to formal negotiations.
Continued Military Buildup Despite De-escalation Signals
Despite diplomatic signals, the United States continues to reinforce its military presence across the region. Reports indicate that additional troops, including elements of the 82nd Airborne Division, are being deployed alongside carrier strike groups and Marine units.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has not ruled out ground operations, stating that while Washington prefers a deal, it retains “multiple military options.”
The Pentagon’s approach reflects a dual-track strategy of sustained pressure on Iran while keeping diplomatic channels open.
Regional Conflict and Energy Disruption
The conflict continues to spill across West Asia, with ongoing strikes and counterstrikes involving multiple actors. Israeli airstrikes in Beirut targeting Hezbollah operatives reportedly killed at least seven people and injured 24, according to Reuters.
Tensions have also disrupted global energy flows, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route. Rising fuel prices and supply concerns have added to global economic uncertainty.
Donald Trump has urged energy-dependent nations to take greater responsibility for securing supply routes amid the instability.
Growing Economic and Political Pressure
The war has contributed to rising global oil prices and increased fuel costs, intensifying economic pressure in both domestic and international markets. Public opinion in the United States also appears to be shifting, with recent polling indicating that a majority of Americans support ending US involvement in the conflict, even without fully achieving strategic objectives.
Uncertain Path Ahead
While recent statements from both Washington and Tehran suggest potential momentum toward de-escalation, significant obstacles remain, particularly over nuclear assurances, security guarantees, and enforcement mechanisms.
With military activity ongoing and diplomatic messaging still inconsistent, analysts caution that the conflict remains at a fragile inflection point, where outcomes will depend on whether negotiations can keep pace with developments on the ground.
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