Two weeks. No deal needed. Trump says the US is leaving Iran—so what happens next?
U.S. President Donald Trump says American military operations in Iran are nearing their end, signaling a potential withdrawal within weeks even as fighting continues and diplomacy remains uncertain.
Speaking at the White House, Trump outlined a timeline of roughly two to three weeks to conclude operations, describing the campaign as entering its final phase. “We’re finishing the job,” he said, suggesting that U.S. objectives—primarily degrading Iran’s nuclear and military capabilities—are close to being achieved.
Notably, Trump emphasized that a withdrawal would not depend on reaching a formal agreement with Tehran. “Whether we have a deal or not, it’s irrelevant,” he said, framing the mission in terms of military outcomes rather than diplomatic closure.
His comments suggest a shift toward a unilateral endgame, where Washington defines success on its own terms.
The remarks come as Iran continues to exert pressure on global energy markets by restricting access through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global oil shipments.
Despite earlier calls for allied support to secure the route, Trump signaled a reduced U.S. role going forward, urging other nations to take responsibility for protecting their own energy supplies.
“If countries want oil, they can go get it themselves,” he said, in a pointed message to allies in Europe and Asia. The statement reflects growing frustration within the administration over what it sees as limited international burden-sharing during the crisis.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reinforced the sense of urgency, describing the coming days as “decisive” while declining to rule out further escalation, including the possible use of ground forces. He confirmed a recent visit to U.S. troops operating under United States Central Command, underscoring ongoing preparations even as withdrawal plans take shape.
The emerging strategy appears to combine sustained military pressure with a rapid exit timeline, a balancing act that carries significant risks. While Washington signals confidence that Iran has been “decimated,” the broader regional landscape remains volatile, with active fronts in Lebanon, the Red Sea, and the Gulf.
If the U.S. follows through on a swift withdrawal, the conflict may not end—but instead enter a new phase, one defined less by American military presence and more by regional power struggles left unresolved.
