President is weighing the possibility of scaling back U.S. military operations in , even as the conflict continues to escalate and key objectives remain unresolved.
Speaking to reporters before departing Washington, Trump suggested that the United States may be nearing its goals in the region, hinting at a potential drawdown of what he described as a major military effort in the Middle East. However, his statements appeared inconsistent, as he also emphasized ongoing military successes, claiming U.S. forces were significantly degrading Iran’s military capabilities, including its missile systems and naval strength.
Despite earlier calls for a ceasefire being ruled out, Trump later indicated via social media that the U.S. was “getting very close” to achieving its objectives, raising questions about the administration’s long-term strategy and endgame in the conflict.
Notably, some of Trump’s previously stated goals — including dismantling the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps — were absent from his latest remarks. Instead, his focus appeared to shift toward preventing Iran from developing nuclear capabilities and ensuring the United States remains in a position to respond swiftly to future threats.
The war has also triggered significant global consequences, particularly in energy markets. Oil prices have surged, with disruptions in the threatening global supply chains. The administration has responded by considering releases from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and allowing limited flows of oil from sanctioned countries to stabilize prices.
Trump has also called on U.S. allies to take greater responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting a shift in burden-sharing. This move comes after initial reluctance from allies, many of whom were not consulted before the conflict began.
Analysts note that the conflict has not unfolded as quickly as anticipated. Expectations of a swift collapse of Iran’s leadership structure have not materialized, and there is little evidence of internal uprisings or defections within the Iranian government.
Former Council on Foreign Relations president described the evolving approach as a new “Trump Doctrine,” implying that while the U.S. initiated the conflict, it now expects other nations to manage its long-term consequences.
As the war enters its third week, uncertainty remains over how and when it will end. While Trump has begun referring to the conflict as a temporary “excursion,” observers warn that its economic and geopolitical impacts could persist far beyond any immediate military withdrawal.
