Trump says West Asia conflict may end soon
US President Donald Trump said the ongoing conflict in West Asia could end soon, though not within the coming week, as tensions continue to escalate across the region and diplomatic prospects remain uncertain.Speaking at a press conference, Trump indicated that dialogue with Tehran is still be possible, but stressed that any talks would depend on the terms offered by Iran. Even as military conflict continue, Trump suggested that negotiations were not ruled out.
The US President also commented on Iran’s leadership dynamics, saying he did not believe Mojtaba Khamenei —widely reported to have assumed the role of Supreme Leader and the son of Ali Khamenei — would be able to “live in peace” amid the current tensions.Meanwhile, Iran’s powerful military wing, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), dismissed US claims that its missile capabilities had been severely damaged during the conflict.
In a statement, the force said Iran’s missile programme remains operational and that it is deploying projectiles in increasing numbers, including missiles carrying warheads weighing more than one tonne.
“It is we who will determine the end of the war,” the IRGC said in a statement responding to Trump’s remarks. “The equations and future status of the region are now in the hands of our armed forces; American forces will not end the war,” it added, underscoring Iran’s defiant stance as the conflict continues to intensify.Meanwhile, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said Washington would continue military operations until “the enemy is totally and decisively defeated.” He emphasised that the campaign would proceed according to the US’ strategic timeline.
Hegseth’s remarks came shortly after Trump made comments suggesting the conflict could end soon, reflecting differing tones within the US administration about the potential trajectory of the war.The exchange comes as the world’s leading oil exporter has warned that prolonged hostilities could have “catastrophic consequences” for global markets if the conflict disrupts access to the critical maritime route of the Strait of Hormuz.As military tensions persist and diplomatic efforts remain uncertain, analysts warn that the unfolding crisis could reshape the geopolitical balance in West Asia while carrying far-reaching economic and security implications worldwide.
