US President Donald Trump says American forces could end their military campaign against Iran within two to three weeks, even if no agreement is reached with Tehran. He made the remarks at the White House as the conflict entered its fifth week, raising fresh questions about Washington’s next move.

Reports say Trump suggested a deal with Iran is no longer essential for the US to wind down its operation. That marks a sharp shift from earlier pressure on Tehran to accept a ceasefire framework tied to its nuclear programme and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Mixed Messages From Washington

The message from Washington is not fully aligned. While Trump downplayed the need for diplomacy, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said a negotiated settlement is still possible. That split has added more uncertainty to an already volatile conflict.

The White House has also indicated that Trump is expected to address the nation with a major update on Iran, suggesting that a broader policy announcement could be close.

Strait of Hormuz Remains a Flashpoint

A major pressure point is the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes. Roughly a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas flows through the passage, making any threat to it a global economic risk.

Reports say the United Arab Emirates is preparing to help reopen the strait, potentially with backing from the United Nations Security Council. At the same time, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said messages had been exchanged with US envoy Steve Witkoff, but denied that formal talks were under way.

Regional Tensions Still Rising

Despite Trump’s suggestion that the end could be near, the wider region remains on edge. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have reportedly warned major US companies operating in the region, while violence involving Israel and Hezbollah has continued in Lebanon. Mediation efforts are also expanding, with countries such as Pakistan trying to cool tensions.

For now, Trump’s two-to-three-week timeline may calm markets, but it has not brought clarity. The war is still live, the risks are still real and the next US move could shape the region for years.