US President Donald Trump told journalists on Tuesday that the United States' military campaign against Iran could conclude within two to three weeks. According to reports from Reuters and CNN, Trump emphasized that a deal with Tehran is not necessary for this. He stated that the US will soon cease operations and leave the region, as they allegedly have no reason to continue involvement.

Trump reportedly gave a negative response when asked if successful diplomacy with Iran is a prerequisite for ending the operation. He said, “Iran doesn't have to make a deal, no. No, they don't have to make a deal with me.” However, he did not rule out an agreement, suggesting that Tehran might desire one more. Trump purportedly claimed that the US goal of preventing Iran from having nuclear weapons has already been achieved.

The US leader also asserted that the issue of opening the Strait of Hormuz should be handled by other countries. He stressed that if France or other nations want to obtain oil or gas, they should transit the strait and manage their own risks. Trump said, “We have nothing to do with it. We don't care what's happening in the strait – we don't want to get involved.”

After the US and Israel began strikes against Iran on February 28, Tehran immediately blocked the Strait of Hormuz, which carries 15-20% of the world's oil and over 30% of liquefied gas. This led to a sharp increase in oil prices, impacting American budgets and creating political challenges for Trump and the Republican Party ahead of the US Congressional midterm elections in November.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, in an interview with Al Jazeera, stated Tehran's readiness to fight for “at least six months.” He said, “We do not set timelines for self-defense. We will protect our country and people as long as necessary and by any means required.” Araqchi also denied Trump's claims that Tehran agreed to “most” of the US demands to halt the war, noting that Iran has not responded to Washington's 15-point plan.

Source: www.gazeta.uz