Is the Iran Conflict Nearing Its End? Insights from US Officials
Potential Resolution of the Iran Conflict
Washington: Senior officials from the Trump administration have indicated that the ongoing conflict with Iran might conclude within a matter of weeks, despite the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East and rising oil prices due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
As the conflict enters its third week, global energy markets are feeling the strain from the significant slowdown in shipping through this crucial waterway.
During an appearance on ABC’s This Week, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright expressed optimism about the military campaign's rapid progress.
Wright acknowledged the unpredictability of war, stating, “There are no guarantees in wars at all,” but he remained hopeful that the conflict would soon reach a resolution.
He mentioned, “I think that this conflict will certainly come to an end in the next few weeks, could — could be sooner than that.”
White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the military efforts were advancing more swiftly than anticipated.
Hassett noted, “The Department of War believed that it would take four to six weeks to complete this mission and that we’re ahead of schedule.”
The war has already caused significant disruptions in global energy markets, with tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz — a vital oil shipping route — sharply declining due to security threats and attacks.
US officials are reportedly urging allied nations to assist in securing the waterway and ensuring the safety of commercial shipping.
Wright stated that while disruptions are expected, they are likely to be temporary.
He remarked, “Yes, we’re going to have disruption, and we do have disruption.”
President Donald Trump has also suggested that the conflict could ultimately lead to stabilization in energy markets and the broader region.
Hassett mentioned, “The president will decide if they no longer have the capability of blackmailing us and harming our neighbours.”
On the other hand, Iran has firmly rejected any notion of seeking a ceasefire, asserting its commitment to continue fighting for as long as necessary.
In an interview on CBS’s Face the Nation, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied that Tehran had requested a ceasefire or negotiations with the US.
He stated, “No, we never asked for a cease-fire, and we have never asked even for negotiation.”
Araghchi emphasized Iran's readiness to defend itself against what it perceives as US aggression.
He declared, “We are ready to defend ourselves as long as it takes.”
The foreign minister accused the US of initiating the conflict, labeling it a war of choice by President Trump.
He stated, “This is a war of choice by President Trump and the United States, and we are going to continue our self-defence.”
Araghchi dismissed claims that Iran needed to negotiate for survival, asserting, “No, it’s not a war of survival. We are stable and strong enough.”