President Donald Trump declared Tuesday that the United States could end its military campaign against Iran within two to three weeks, marking his clearest timeline yet for concluding a conflict now in its fifth week.
The president told reporters at the White House that America would be departing Iran soon, regardless of whether diplomatic negotiations succeed.
We'll be leaving very soon... within two weeks, maybe two weeks, maybe three.
Donald Trump, US President — Al-Monitor
Trump's comments came as the White House announced he would address the nation Wednesday night at 9 PM Eastern Time to provide what officials called an "important update" on Iran.
The president insisted that a diplomatic agreement was not necessary to wind down what the administration has dubbed "Operation Epic Fury." Instead, he outlined a military objective focused on Iran's nuclear capabilities.
Presents Trump's statements factually while noting the ongoing expansion of the conflict with fresh Iranian attacks. Includes Israeli perspective showing continued military commitment despite US timeline.
Emphasizes expert skepticism about Trump's shifting timelines and questions US control over the conflict. Frames the war as having become a "debacle" that has spread beyond American influence.