US troops may exit Iran conflict in weeks, says Donald Trump

Washington (The Uttam Hindu): Donald Trump has said that the United States could withdraw its military from the ongoing conflict with Iran within the next few weeks, claiming that the primary objective of the mission has already been achieved.

Speaking to reporters at the Oval Office in the White House, Trump stated, “I think it will take two or three weeks. The mission is nearing completion.” He asserted that the main goal was to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and claimed that this objective has been fulfilled.

Trump said that sustained military strikes have significantly weakened Iran’s capabilities. According to him, “Our only goal was that Iran should not have nuclear weapons, and that goal has been achieved.”

He also indicated that the situation inside Iran has changed, suggesting a shift in leadership dynamics. Trump said the United States is now engaging with what he described as more “reasonable” individuals, adding that the military campaign was aimed at weakening Iran’s capabilities for the long term.

At the same time, he expressed the possibility of a negotiated settlement. “A deal could happen, because they want it more than we do,” he said. However, he clarified that any agreement is not a condition for the withdrawal of US forces.

Trump further claimed that Iran has been pushed back significantly and may take 15 to 20 years to recover. He described the military action as necessary to stop what he called a dangerous pursuit of nuclear weapons.

According to Trump, US forces have targeted key Iranian installations, severely damaging its naval, air, and defense capabilities. He also claimed that Iran’s communication systems and air defense infrastructure have been largely destroyed.

Calling it a decisive outcome, Trump said Iran is in a weakened position and has acknowledged its setbacks, adding that US aircraft now maintain full control of the airspace.