United States President Donald Trump has indicated that the ongoing war between the United States and Iran could end soon, saying there are few remaining targets for American forces.
Speaking in an interview with news platform Axios, Trump suggested that the conflict, which began on February 28, may be approaching its final phase.
“There is practically nothing left to target,” the U.S. president said, adding that the war could conclude quickly if he chooses to end it.
Trump’s latest remarks come after weeks of mixed signals about the timeline and objectives of the military campaign.
While the White House has maintained that the operation aims to neutralise Iran’s military capabilities and prevent the development of nuclear weapons, speculation has grown that Washington may seek a swift exit as international pressure increases.
The conflict has already had global consequences, including rising oil prices and disruptions to maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital channel for global energy supplies.
Iranian forces reportedly fired on two commercial vessels in the Gulf on Wednesday, setting at least one ship ablaze.
Trump said American forces had already destroyed most of Iran’s naval assets used for laying sea mines.
According to him, the United States neutralised several vessels in a single night operation, significantly weakening Iran’s ability to threaten international shipping routes.
He also claimed that Iran’s navy, air force and air defence systems had been largely dismantled during the campaign.
However, he added that U.S. military operations were not yet completely finished.
The conflict has also triggered a leadership crisis in Tehran following the reported death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei earlier in the war.
His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, is believed to have taken over the leadership role, though Washington has not confirmed whether regime change is part of its war objectives.
When asked whether he would declare victory while Mojtaba Khamenei remains in power, Trump declined to comment.
The war has also raised humanitarian concerns.
A report by The New York Times revealed that a US Tomahawk missile mistakenly struck an elementary school during the early hours of the conflict.
According to the report, a U.S. military investigation found the strike resulted from a targeting error.
Trump told reporters he was unaware of the incident when asked about it.
Meanwhile, Iran has warned it would continue retaliatory attacks.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it had targeted two commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, a Liberian-flagged tanker and a Thai cargo ship.
The attacks have heightened fears that the strategic shipping corridor could be closed or heavily disrupted.
At the same time, Israel Katz said Israeli military operations connected to the campaign would continue indefinitely until all objectives are achieved.
Political Pressure at Home
Back in Washington, Trump faces increasing scrutiny over the war’s consequences, including economic effects and rising oil prices.
Some analysts believe the administration may attempt to conclude the conflict quickly ahead of the upcoming U.S. midterm elections that will determine control of Congress.
Despite the uncertainty, Trump insisted the situation in the Strait of Hormuz would soon stabilise.
“You’re going to see great safety, and it’s going to be very, very quickly,” the U.S. president said.
