Washington, Tel Aviv, Cairo: President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that the United States is likely to conclude its military actions against Iran soon, but may return for “spot hits” if necessary. This statement came just hours before his primetime address to the nation, scheduled for 9 p.m. EDT.
In his upcoming speech, Trump is expected to discuss the possibility of withdrawing the U.S. from the NATO alliance. When asked when the U.S. would consider its involvement in the Iran conflict over, Trump replied, “I can’t tell you exactly … we’re going to be out pretty quickly.” A White House official indicated that he might suggest a timetable of two to three weeks for an end to U.S. military operations in Iran.
Trump emphasized that U.S. actions have prevented Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. He stated, “They won’t have a nuclear weapon because they are incapable of that now,” adding that he plans to remove U.S. troops and that if necessary, they could return for specific military strikes.
An Iranian official mentioned on social media that a significant message to the American people from Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian would be released soon.
Meanwhile, the International Energy Agency warned that global oil supplies could be significantly impacted this month, highlighting the urgent need to resolve the conflict that escalated on February 28. Trump shared on social media that while Iran had requested a ceasefire, he would only consider it if Iran stopped obstructing the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for fuel shipments. Iran has denied making such a request.
Pakistan, which is mediating between the two sides, proposed a temporary ceasefire but has not received a response. U.S. Vice President JD Vance communicated with Pakistani intermediaries about the conflict, indicating Trump’s openness to a ceasefire, contingent on certain U.S. conditions, including the reopening of the vital Strait of Hormuz.
Trump also suggested that he could wind down U.S. military involvement in the war without a formal agreement, threatening to withdraw from NATO if European countries do not assist in stopping Iran’s actions.
In his remarks, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with NATO’s lack of support for U.S. efforts regarding Iran. European officials appeared unfazed by these comments; France’s junior army minister stated that NATO operations in the Strait of Hormuz would violate international law.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in numerous casualties and has caused significant disruptions in energy supplies. IEA head Fatih Birol pointed out that Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz is already leading to shortages of jet fuel and diesel, particularly in Asia, with Europe potentially facing similar issues in the coming months.
Ryanair’s leader warned that if the conflict continues beyond next month, jet fuel supplies to Europe could face serious disruptions, which might lead to flight cancellations during the summer season. Various businesses worldwide are feeling the strain, with industries like cosmetics and tea also reporting challenges.
