The United States is preparing to wind down its military campaign against Iran “fairly soon,” President Donald Trump said in remarks to Reuters on Wednesday, raising hopes of a potential de-escalation in a conflict that has entered its fifth week. However, he cautioned that Washington may still carry out limited future strikes – what he described as “spot hits” – if deemed necessary to protect its interests.
The comments came just hours before a scheduled primetime national address, set to be broadcast Thursday morning in Bangladesh, where Trump is expected to outline his administration’s next steps. Notably, he also indicated that he is considering a dramatic reassessment of US participation in NATO, a move that could have far-reaching geopolitical implications.
Pressure mounts for exit strategy
With the war dragging on and domestic pressure intensifying, Trump appeared eager to signal an exit strategy. Rising fuel prices, growing public fatigue, and criticism from political leaders across the spectrum have created urgency for a resolution.
“I can’t tell you exactly when,” Trump said when asked about a timeline for ending the war, “but we’re going to be out pretty quickly.” He reiterated that US military actions had successfully neutralized Iran’s nuclear ambitions. “They won’t have a nuclear weapon because they are incapable of that now,” he asserted, adding that American forces would withdraw once objectives were secured.
Nevertheless, the president left the door open for future intervention. “If we have to, we’ll come back to do spot hits,” he said, signaling a potential shift toward a more limited, strike-based strategy rather than sustained military engagement.
Oil markets rattled
The conflict has sent shockwaves through global energy markets, with the International Energy Agency warning that oil supply disruptions in April could be twice as severe as those experienced in March. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for energy trade that has been effectively closed due to escalating hostilities.
Iran has reportedly employed a combination of drones, missile threats, and possible naval mines to obstruct the strait, significantly reducing tanker traffic. As a result, oil prices have experienced sharp volatility, at times dipping below $100 per barrel following signals of potential de-escalation from both Washington and Tehran.
Beyond the energy sector, the war has begun to impact a wide range of industries worldwide. Companies dealing in consumer goods, including cosmetics and tea, have reported supply chain disruptions and rising costs, highlighting the broader economic toll of the conflict.
UK resists US pressure, turns toward Europe
In London, Prime Minister Keir Starmer made clear that Britain would not be drawn into the conflict despite mounting pressure from Washington. Speaking at a Downing Street press conference, Starmer emphasized the need for strategic independence and reaffirmed his government’s focus on strengthening ties with European partners.
Trump has openly criticized Starmer for refusing to join the US-led military campaign, reportedly calling him “cowardly” and dismissing his leadership by comparing him unfavourably to Winston Churchill. He also mocked Britain’s military capabilities, describing its aircraft carriers as “toys.”
Starmer rejected these remarks and stressed that Britain’s long-term interests lie in stability and multilateral cooperation. “It is increasingly clear that as the world continues down this volatile path, our national interest requires closer partnership with our allies in Europe,” he said, hinting at a potential recalibration of UK foreign policy away from its traditional alignment with the United States.
Diplomatic push to reopen vital waterway
Amid rising global concern, UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is set to host a virtual meeting of approximately 35 countries aimed at identifying diplomatic solutions to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The meeting will focus on de-escalation strategies and ensuring the security of one of the world’s most critical maritime routes.
Starmer underscored that reopening the strait is essential not only for stabilizing energy prices but also for alleviating the broader cost-of-living crisis affecting millions worldwide. “The best way to address rising costs is through de-escalation,” he noted.
American public favours swift withdrawal
Back in the United States, public opinion appears to be shifting decisively against prolonged involvement in the conflict. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 66% of Americans favour ending the war quickly, even if it means falling short of the administration’s stated objectives.
Only 27% of respondents supported continuing the war until all goals are achieved, while 6% remained undecided. Even among Republican voters, support for a swift conclusion was significant, with 40% backing an early withdrawal compared to 57% who favoured a longer engagement.
The survey also revealed broader dissatisfaction with the military campaign: 60% of respondents said they disapproved of US strikes on Iran, compared to 35% who approved.
UN raises alarm over media restrictions
Meanwhile, the United Nations has expressed concern over increasing restrictions on freedom of expression in countries involved in the conflict. Volker Türk warned of a “sharp securitisation of civic space,” citing measures that limit peaceful assembly and suppress dissenting voices.
Türk criticized actions by both Israel and the United States, pointing to military censorship and regulatory threats against media outlets. He specifically highlighted concerns over the Federal Communications Commission, which has reportedly considered revoking broadcast licenses for coverage deemed critical of the war.
A conflict with lasting consequences
As the Iran war continues to reverberate across geopolitical, economic, and social spheres, leaders worldwide are grappling with its long-term implications. With thousands killed and global markets under strain, the urgency for a political solution has never been greater.
Trump’s intention of a possible withdrawal may offer a glimmer of hope, but uncertainty remains. Whether the conflict truly winds down or evolves into a new phase of intermittent strikes will depend on the complex interplay of domestic politics, international diplomacy, and regional dynamics.
