Trump says Iran war could end in weeks as tensions and oil crisis intensify

US President Donald Trump has said the United States could stop attacking Iran within two to three weeks, suggesting that a formal agreement may not be necessary to bring the conflict to an end.

Speaking at the White House, Trump indicated that the US would be “leaving very soon”, estimating a timeline of “maybe two weeks, maybe three”. He added that a deal with Iran was not required for the war to conclude, marking a shift from earlier claims that negotiations were under way.

His comments come amid ongoing tensions and a conflict that has disrupted global energy supplies and shaken the wider economy.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that no negotiations are currently taking place with Washington, despite reports of direct and indirect exchanges of messages. This contrasts with earlier statements suggesting diplomatic progress.

Trump also outlined the conditions under which the US might withdraw. He said the country would leave once it believed Iran had been sufficiently weakened and would not be able to develop a nuclear weapon. Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear activities are peaceful and denies seeking such capabilities.

The conflict has already had a significant human and regional impact. Fighting has spread across multiple areas, with thousands of people reported killed, particularly in Iran and Lebanon, where military operations have intensified.

At the same time, Trump has directed criticism at allied countries that have not supported US military efforts. In a message posted on social media, he told countries including the United Kingdom to either purchase US fuel or become more involved in the conflict.

“You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself,” he said, adding: “Go get your own oil.”

The remarks come as petrol prices in the United States have risen sharply, exceeding an average of $4 per gallon. The increase has been linked to disruptions caused by attacks on Gulf oil facilities and ongoing pressure on supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Strait remains a critical route for global energy, with around one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passing through the waterway. Continued instability in the region has raised concerns about long-term supply disruptions.

Trump has also criticised France for its stance during the conflict, particularly regarding the use of its territory for military operations. French officials responded by stating that their position has remained unchanged since the beginning of the conflict.

UK Defence Secretary John Healey addressed similar criticism, emphasising that the United Kingdom continues to be a key ally of the United States.

Experts have urged caution in interpreting Trump’s timeline for ending the conflict. Analysts note that previous predictions about the duration of the war have repeatedly shifted, raising doubts about how quickly a resolution can be achieved.

There are also concerns that the situation may not be fully under US control, as the conflict has expanded across the region.

As the war continues to affect global energy markets and international relations, uncertainty remains over how and when it will end. Trump’s latest comments suggest a potential withdrawal within weeks, but the broader situation remains fluid and unpredictable.