US could 'finish the job' in Iran in two or three weeks, Trump says

April 1, 2026

President Trump announced that US military operations in Iran could conclude within two to three weeks, claiming American forces have successfully degraded Iran's military capabilities and set back its nuclear program by 15-20 years. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian indicated willingness to end the month-long conflict that began on February 28, but only with guarantees against future aggression. While Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed negotiations are underway and direct meetings remain possible, active hostilities continue across the region with strikes by US and Israeli forces hitting Iranian targets and Iranian attacks targeting Gulf states and Israel.

Who is affected

United States military forces and government
Iran, including its military, navy, and air force
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and his government
Israel and its military forces
Lebanon, particularly Beirut residents
Hezbollah commanders and members
Gulf states: Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait
European Council and President António Costa
Civilians in affected regions across the Middle East

What action is being taken

US forces are conducting military strikes on underground targets in Iran
Israeli military is attacking Iranian facilities and Hezbollah positions in Lebanon
Iran is firing projectiles toward Israel
Iran is launching drone and missile attacks on Gulf states including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait
Diplomatic talks are occurring between US and Iranian representatives
President Trump is preparing to deliver a national address on Iran
Saudi Arabia is intercepting Iranian drones

Why it matters

This conflict represents a significant direct military confrontation between the United States and Iran that has severely degraded Iran's military infrastructure and nuclear capabilities. The outcome will reshape Middle Eastern geopolitical dynamics for years, as Trump claims Iran has been set back 15-20 years militarily. The conflict has expanded beyond US-Iran hostilities to involve Israel, Lebanon, and multiple Gulf states, threatening regional stability and critical infrastructure including international airports and maritime routes like the Strait of Hormuz. Whether the war ends through diplomatic agreement or unilateral US withdrawal will establish precedents for future international conflicts and nuclear non-proliferation efforts.

What's next

President Trump will address the nation at 21:00 ET Wednesday (02:00 BST Thursday) to provide an "important update on Iran"
Potential direct meetings between US and Iranian officials may occur
US military operations are expected to conclude within two to three weeks
Diplomatic negotiations continue, with possible deal-making before US withdrawal

Read full article from source: BBC