Trump says Iran war won’t last ‘much longer’, Strait of Hormuz to reopen ‘automatically’

WASHINGTON, DC: Donald Trump is signaling a possible end to the ongoing conflict with Iran, saying the war may not drag on much longer and that global oil routes could soon stabilize.

In a phone interview on Tuesday, March 31, Trump told The New York Post that he expects the situation to wind down soon, offering a confident outlook on both military progress and economic impact.

Trump says Iran war could end soon

Trump made it clear that he does not see the conflict stretching on for months.

“We’re not going to be there too much longer. We’re obliterating the s–t out of them right now,” he said, while also adding that some work still remains.

“We won’t have to be there much longer — but we have more work to do in terms of killing their offensive, whatever offensive capability they have left.”

Later, speaking to reporters in the Oval Office after markets closed, Trump doubled down on the timeline, saying the war could wrap up quickly.

He said it may end in “maybe two weeks, maybe a couple of days longer,” reinforcing his view that the conflict is nearing its final phase.

Strait of Hormuz reopening ‘automatically’ after US exit

One of the key concerns during the conflict has been the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments.

Trump suggested that the situation would resolve itself once US forces pull back.

“Well, I think it’ll automatically open,” he said. “But my attitude is, I’ve obliterated the country. They have no strength left, and let the countries that are using the strait, let them go and open it.”

He added that nations dependent on the route would likely step in.

“I would imagine whoever’s controlling the oil will be very happy to open the strait,” he said.

At the same time, Trump stressed that ending the war does not hinge on Iran agreeing to any deal.

“Iran doesn’t have to make a deal,” he said, framing the outcome as already decided by military action.

Market rally and gas price optimism follow remarks

Trump’s comments appeared to have an immediate impact on market sentiment.

Major stock indices surged shortly after his remarks, with the Dow jumping more than 1,100 points, while the Nasdaq rose nearly 800 points and the S&P gained 185 points.

The rally reflected growing optimism that the conflict may soon ease and that economic pressures could follow suit.

Trump also linked the situation directly to fuel costs, suggesting relief could come quickly.

“All I have to do is leave Iran, and we’ll be doing that very soon, and they’ll come tumbling down,” he said, referring to gas prices.

While much of the oil flowing through the Persian Gulf does not go directly to the United States, disruptions in the region have still pushed up global prices, which in turn affect Americans at the pump.

Trump keeps strategy vague amid ongoing operations

Despite his confident tone, Trump declined to share specific details about military strategy or next steps.

“I don’t think about it, to be honest. My sole function was to make sure that they don’t have a nuclear weapon. They’re not going to have a nuclear weapon,” he said.

He also avoided confirming whether diplomatic efforts or negotiations were being planned.

“I can’t talk to you about this stuff… What do you want me to give, my strategy?” Trump said.

At the same time, military movements continue in the region, with additional US forces being deployed, keeping options open even as Trump talks up a quick end.