United States President Donald Trump has declared that the ongoing Middle East conflict could be wrapped up “very soon,” projecting a timeline of just two to three weeks for an end to hostilities.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump struck a confident tone: “We’re finishing the job,” he said, suggesting that Washington’s objectives were nearly achieved—even as he hinted a diplomatic deal could still emerge before military operations conclude.
His remarks were quickly matched by signals from Tehran. Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, said his country has “the necessary will” to end the conflict—on the condition that guarantees are secured to prevent future attacks.
Together, the statements injected a wave of optimism into global markets.
Markets Rally, But Oil Anxiety Persists
Stocks surged worldwide on the prospect of de-escalation. Wall Street soared, with the Nasdaq jumping 3.8% and the S&P 500 climbing nearly 3%, while major Asian markets—from Seoul to Tokyo—posted strong gains.
But beneath the rally lies a deeper concern: oil.
Crude prices climbed again amid fears that the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz—a corridor for roughly 20% of global oil supply—could remain disrupted.
Trump made it clear the U.S. would not intervene to reopen the waterway, bluntly stating: “What happens with the strait, we’re not going to have anything to do with.”
That stance has raised alarms across energy markets and among U.S. allies.
Mixed Signals and Rising Stakes
Despite talk of a quick end, the situation remains fluid.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisted military operations would continue, vowing to “crush the terror regime.” Meanwhile, reports suggest more U.S. troops are arriving in the region, and Gulf states may consider direct involvement if shipping routes remain blocked.
Trump himself has sent mixed messages—alternating between escalation and negotiation—leaving analysts cautious.
Economic Pressure Mounts
Even if the fighting stops soon, the economic shock is already spreading:
- U.S. fuel prices have surged past $4 per gallon
- European inflation is climbing again
- Oil prices remain above $100 per barrel
Analysts warn that prolonged disruption—even without active conflict—could tighten global financial conditions and slow economic growth.
A Fragile Countdown
For now, the world is watching a high-stakes countdown.
Diplomatic signals are improving, markets are responding—but the risks remain tightly tied to النفط flows, military decisions, and fragile political guarantees.
Trump may be betting on a quick finish.
But as long as the Strait of Hormuz hangs in the balance, the end of the war—and its global consequences—remains anything but certain.
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