President Donald Trump has indicated that U.S. military operations in Iran could conclude within the next two to three weeks, signaling a shift in timeline as tensions in the region continue to impact global oil markets.
Speaking from the Oval Office during an executive order signing, Trump offered a more extended estimate than earlier projections from his administration. “I would say within two weeks, maybe three,” he said, while emphasizing the intensity of recent U.S. strikes. “We’re hitting them very hard. Last night we knocked out tremendous amounts of missile-making facilities.”
The updated timeline comes as the operation enters its fifth week, surpassing earlier expectations that the campaign would last between four and six weeks. Despite the extended timeframe, Trump maintained that the mission’s primary objective—preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons—has already been achieved.
Diplomatic efforts, however, remain on the table. “It’s possible that we’ll make a deal before that,” Trump noted, suggesting a negotiated outcome could accelerate a U.S. withdrawal. He added, “If they come to the table, that’ll be good. But it doesn’t matter whether they come or not, we’ve set them back.”
The ongoing conflict has had immediate economic consequences, particularly in global energy markets. Oil supply disruptions have intensified following the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route responsible for transporting roughly 20 million barrels of oil and petroleum products daily.
With shipments significantly reduced and only limited vessel movement allowed, fuel prices have climbed in recent weeks. Addressing concerns over rising gas prices, Trump linked the issue directly to the U.S. presence in Iran. “All I have to do is leave Iran,” he said. “They’ll come tumbling down.”
Still, Trump suggested that maritime activity may be showing signs of recovery, stating that he had “heard tremendous numbers of ships were sailing through” the strait, even as negotiations continue behind the scenes.
