Some advisers to Donald Trump are urging the US President to consider an exit strategy from the conflict with Iran, warning that a prolonged war could trigger political backlash and economic pressure as oil prices rise. Trump signalled Monday that he expects the conflict to end soon, even as fighting continues and tensions remain high in the region.
Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump said the US military campaign had largely achieved its goals. “We’re way ahead of schedule,” he said, adding that he believed the conflict would be over “very soon.”
The president did not provide a specific timeline for ending the operation in Iran. Asked about supporting Iranians protesting against their government, Trump suggested he preferred a quick conclusion to the conflict rather than a prolonged push for regime change.
“We want a system that can lead to many years of peace, and if we can’t have that, we might as well get it over with right now,” Trump said.
The comments came as Iran named Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the slain Ali Khamenei, as the country’s new supreme leader — a move seen by Washington as a sign that Tehran is unlikely to back down.
U.S. officials say it may be difficult for Washington to withdraw quickly if Iran continues attacks in the region and Israel maintains strikes on Iranian targets. Trump said the United States would continue targeting Iran if it blocks oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route.
A senior administration official said Trump would not end the operation until he could claim a satisfactory victory, particularly while the United States maintains a military advantage, reports Wall Street Journal.
The White House pushed back against reports that advisers are pressing for a rapid exit.
“This story is full of crap from anonymous sources who, I can guarantee, are not in the room with President Trump,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said. “The president’s top aides are focused 24/7 on ensuring Operation Epic Fury continues to be a tremendous success, and the end of these operations will ultimately be determined by the commander in chief.”
Trump has made mixed remarks about the war. Last week he called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” and did not rule out sending US ground troops, though he later said he was “nowhere near” issuing such an order.
Source: India Latest News, Breaking News Today, Top News Headlines | Times Now
