WASHINGTON — In a recent interview with Axios, U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that the military engagement with Iran could conclude imminently, stating that there is “practically nothing left to target” and emphasizing that the conflict would end “soon.” Trump asserted unilateral control over the timeline, remarking, “Any time I want it to end, it will end.”
The war, which commenced on February 28, has been characterized by ambiguous strategic objectives and fluctuating rhetoric from the White House. Mounting political pressure and accusations of inadequate preparedness have placed the administration under scrutiny, particularly as Iran’s disruptive actions in the Strait of Hormuz trigger global oil price surges.
On Wednesday, Iranian forces attacked two commercial vessels in the Gulf, igniting at least one ship. In response, Trump assured rapid restoration of safety in the region while en route to an economy-focused event. He claimed that U.S. forces had incapacitated most of Iran’s mine-laying capabilities in a single night, though he noted no evidence of actual mine deployment.
Trump further declared that Iran’s military infrastructure—including its navy, air force, and air defenses—had been largely neutralized, and its leadership significantly degraded. However, he cautioned, “we’re not finished yet.”
The administration’s stated war aims include preventing nuclear weapon development and dismantling Iran’s ballistic missile program. While regime change has not been explicitly declared, the killing of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has fueled speculation. Trump declined to comment on whether victory would be proclaimed while Mojtaba Khamenei, his successor, remains in power.
Earlier on Wednesday, U.S. Central Command warned that Iranian civilian ports in the Strait of Hormuz could be treated as legitimate military targets, alleging their use for hostile operations. This comes amid reports of a U.S. missile striking an Iranian elementary school due to a targeting error—an incident Trump claimed no knowledge of when questioned.
As November midterm elections approach, analysts suggest Trump may seek a swift resolution to mitigate political fallout. Nonetheless, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz affirmed that operations would continue indefinitely until all objectives are met. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards reiterated their readiness to retaliate, underscoring the persistent volatility in the region.