U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly being advised by several aides to consider an exit strategy from the ongoing conflict with Iran, as the war begins to trigger economic and political concerns. Rising global oil prices and the potential domestic impact on American voters have prompted some advisers to warn that a prolonged conflict could become costly for the administration.
Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump suggested that the U.S. military campaign had already achieved most of its objectives. He claimed the operation was progressing faster than expected and predicted that the conflict could conclude soon. However, the president did not provide a specific timeline for ending military operations in Iran.
Trump also indicated that he prefers a swift end to the conflict rather than pursuing a long-term campaign aimed at regime change in Tehran. He emphasized that the United States wants a system in Iran that could ensure long-term peace, but added that if such stability cannot be achieved, the conflict should be concluded quickly.
The situation has become more complicated after Iran reportedly appointed Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Ali Khamenei, as the country’s new supreme leader. Washington views this move as a signal that Tehran is unlikely to retreat from the confrontation.
U.S. officials also acknowledge that withdrawing from the conflict may not be simple if Iran continues missile and drone attacks across the region and if Israel maintains its military strikes on Iranian targets. Trump warned that the United States would continue military action if Iran attempts to disrupt global oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy shipping routes.
Despite reports about advisers urging a quick withdrawal, the White House has strongly rejected the claims. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed the reports as inaccurate, stating that Trump’s team remains fully focused on ensuring the success of the ongoing military campaign, known as Operation Epic Fury.
Trump’s own statements about the war have been mixed in recent weeks. At one point, he demanded Iran’s “unconditional surrender” and even suggested that sending U.S. ground troops remained an option. Later, however, he clarified that such a decision was not imminent.
The conflict has also triggered sharp fluctuations in global energy markets. Oil prices briefly surged above $100 per barrel, raising fears of rising fuel costs in the United States. Economic adviser Stephen Moore warned that higher oil prices could significantly impact American households because increases in fuel costs typically push up the prices of many other goods and services.
According to U.S. officials, American forces have conducted thousands of airstrikes targeting Iranian missile bases, military facilities, and government infrastructure since the conflict began on February 28. Iran has retaliated with missile and drone attacks on U.S. military bases and regional infrastructure, keeping tensions across the Middle East at a dangerous level.
