Trump prepares to end Iran war: 'We will leave within two to three weeks'
The US president said the objectives of the war had been achieved, and that the USwould leave Iran "very soon" • Trump: "There is a new regime in Iran; they do not have to sign a deal to end the war"
US President Donald Trump said he plans to withdraw American forces from Iran “very soon — within two to three weeks,” speaking to reporters overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday as he addressed the ongoing conflict and its economic impact.
Responding to questions about rising oil prices, Trump indicated that a US military drawdown is imminent. He also said that following the reported elimination of Ali Khamenei, Iran’s leadership has shifted, describing the current figures in power as "much more reasonable and much less radicalized."
Trump framed the campaign’s central objective as halting Iran’s nuclear program. "There was a madman who wanted to acquire nuclear weapons, and if we had not eliminated him — he would have had a nuclear weapon, and he would have used them."
Addressing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said the United States would not take responsibility for securing the key shipping route if allies declined to participate. "If France or some other country wants to get oil or gas, they will go through the Strait of Hormuz, and they'll be able to fend for themselves," he said. "What happens in the strait — We're not going to have anything to do with it."
On the prospect of ending the conflict, Trump signaled no urgency to reach a deal with Tehran. He suggested that continued military pressure could achieve US objectives, adding that “Iran does not have to make a deal to end the war.” He said Washington would consider leaving once it determines Iran is unable to develop nuclear weapons for an extended period.