Washington, March 21, 2026 — US President Donald Trump has said he is not considering a ceasefire with Iran, even as he signalled that American military operations could soon be wound down after nearly three weeks of fighting.
In a statement, Trump said the United States is “very close to meeting its objectives”, suggesting the conflict may be entering a final phase. However, the remarks come as Washington continues to expand its military presence in the region, deploying an additional 2,500 Marines and seeking $200bn in new funding from Congress.
The war, which began on February 28, has shown no signs of slowing, with US and Israeli forces continuing strikes on Iranian targets, including areas around Tehran. Iran has responded with missile attacks, including reported ballistic missile launches towards the US-UK military base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean.
Regional tensions remain high. Israel has reported continued incoming Iranian missiles, while Saudi Arabia says it intercepted 20 drones targeting its eastern oil-producing region within a few hours.
Casualties are rising across multiple countries. Iranian authorities say more than 1,400 people have been killed, while Israeli attacks in Lebanon have left over 1,000 dead. At least 18 people have been killed in Israel and 13 US troops have also died, according to officials.
The conflict is also impacting global markets, with rising oil prices contributing to stock market declines. In response, the United States has eased sanctions on Iranian oil already in transit in an effort to stabilise fuel prices.
Despite claims that the US is nearing its objectives and estimates that the operation could last four to six weeks, officials have yet to clearly define what would constitute victory or how the conflict will ultimately conclude.
