Donald Trump has said the United States could wind down its military campaign against Iran within two to three weeks, suggesting a possible rapid end to the conflict even without a formal agreement with Tehran.
Speaking at the White House, Trump stated that US forces would be "leaving very soon," adding that a deal with Iran was not a prerequisite for ending operations under what Washington calls "Operation Epic Fury."
The comments highlight shifting messaging from the US administration, as officials have alternated between signalling openness to negotiations and readiness to continue the war. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said talks were ongoing but warned that military action would persist if Iran failed to comply with US demands.
Meanwhile, Iran has escalated its rhetoric, with its Revolutionary Guards threatening to target major American companies operating in the region. The list reportedly includes firms such as Apple, Microsoft and Boeing.
Fighting continues across multiple fronts, including strikes in Beirut, as the conflict enters its fifth week. At the same time, countries like China and Pakistan are pushing for an immediate ceasefire and renewed diplomatic efforts.
Rising oil prices and growing domestic pressure in the United States, of course, are also adding urgency to efforts to end the war.