The United States may soon scale back its ongoing military operations against Iran, with President Donald Trump indicating that a withdrawal could take place within the next few weeks. His remarks come amid a prolonged conflict that has unsettled the Middle East and shaken global energy markets.
Trump hints at imminent withdrawal
Addressing reporters at the White House on Tuesday, Trump suggested that American forces may not remain engaged for much longer.
‘We’ll be leaving very soon,’ he said, adding that the exit could happen ‘within two weeks, maybe two weeks, maybe three,’ according to Reuters.
This is the most direct indication so far that Washington is preparing to wind down its month-long military campaign.
No deal required with Tehran
In a notable shift from conventional diplomatic expectations, Trump clarified that a formal agreement with Iran is not a prerequisite for ending the conflict.
‘Iran doesn’t have to make a deal, no,’ he stated. ‘No, they don’t have to make a deal with me.’
However, he emphasised that the United States would only withdraw once its strategic objectives are met. According to Trump, the campaign will conclude only after Iran has been ‘put into the stone ages’ and stripped of its ability to rapidly develop nuclear weapons. ‘Then we’ll leave,’ he added.
Nation address scheduled
The White House later confirmed that Trump is set to address the nation at 9 pm EDT on Wednesday (0100 GMT Thursday). The speech is expected to outline the administration’s next steps and provide a detailed update on the situation involving Iran.
US ceasefire terms and warning
The potential withdrawal comes against the backdrop of earlier warnings from Washington that military operations could intensify if Iran declined a proposed 15-point ceasefire framework.
Among the key conditions laid out by the US were:
- A commitment from Iran to abandon any pursuit of nuclear weapons
- A complete halt to uranium enrichment activities
- Full reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz
Iran threatens retaliation against US firms
Tensions remain high as Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have reportedly issued fresh threats targeting major American technology and industrial companies.
According to Iranian state media, 18 firms have been named, including Microsoft, Google, Apple, Intel, IBM, Tesla and Boeing. The warning suggests that their operations in the region could face retaliation beginning April 1.
Indirect communication channels open
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi acknowledged that communication channels with the United States remain active, though he denied that formal negotiations are underway.
In an interview with Al Jazeera, Araghchi revealed that messages have been exchanged with US special envoy Steve Witkoff, often through indirect means.