US President Donald Trump has expressed confidence that the ongoing conflict involving Iran could come to an end in the near future, saying Tehran may not be able to sustain the fighting much longer. His remarks came as Iran dismissed Washington’s diplomatic approach, considered new restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, and fresh security concerns across the Middle East sent global oil prices climbing.
Why Did Donald Trump Say The Iran War Could End Soon?
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump said he believes the war “has got to end pretty soon” and that Iran “can’t go much longer.” While acknowledging that the US military is facing supply issues involving some weapons, he maintained that Washington remains committed to preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.Â
Trump also expressed optimism over ongoing discussions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting that stability could return once the conflict comes to an end.
How Did Iran Respond To Trump’s Remarks?
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf dismissed the US position, accusing Washington of pursuing what he described as “theater diplomacy.” In a post on X, he criticised the United States for alternating between military threats and calls for negotiations, urging Washington to recognise the realities on the ground and honour its commitments instead of relying on political rhetoric.
Amid heightened tensions, an Iranian parliamentary committee is reviewing a preliminary bill that would prohibit vessels belonging to the United States, Israel and other countries designated as “hostile” from passing through the Strait of Hormuz. According to Iran’s Fars News Agency, ships found violating the proposed law could face fines of up to 20% of their cargo’s value. The proposal follows reports that Iran targeted what it called “hostile targets” near the strategic waterway, further raising concerns over maritime security and global energy supplies.
Why Are Oil Prices Rising Again?
Oil prices extended their gains after reports of military activity near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest energy shipping routes. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose above $78 per barrel after jumping nearly 3% in the previous trading session, while Brent crude traded around $82 per barrel. Investors reacted to growing uncertainty over shipping through the vital corridor as optimism over the full resumption of maritime traffic weakened. Reports also suggested that under a proposed arrangement involving Oman, Iran plans to prevent Israeli vessels from using the Strait while seeking compensation from countries it considers hostile for passage through the waterway.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said the country’s coordinated governance and crisis management had helped minimise the conflict’s impact on daily life despite attacks on critical infrastructure. In a televised address, he claimed that most citizens “didn’t feel the war at all” and only became aware of incidents when specific locations were struck or through television coverage. He credited government agencies, provincial authorities and cabinet coordination for maintaining normalcy throughout the conflict.
How Are Tensions Escalating Elsewhere In The Middle East?
The conflict has also heightened concerns across the wider Middle East. A Houthi attack on Saudi Arabia’s southern Najran province reportedly injured 11 civilians, including a four year old child. Following the attack, Saudi Arabia warned that further coordinated strikes involving the Houthis and Iran backed Iraqi militias could be imminent, raising fears that the regional conflict could broaden further in the coming days.
