Trump Hints at Ending Military Ops as US Eases Iran Oil Sanctions

Washington, March 21, 2026 – President Donald Trump said Friday that the United States is considering winding down military operations against Iran. The announcement comes as the US temporarily eased sanctions on Iranian oil to ease the global supply crisis.

Trump posted on Truth Social that the US is “getting very close to meeting our objectives” and may soon end military efforts that began on February 28. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt added that US forces are making progress, predicting the mission could take 4–6 weeks, with week 3 just completed.

Amid rising global oil prices, the US Treasury temporarily allowed the sale of Iranian oil already loaded on ships before March 20. The move is expected to bring about 140 million barrels to global markets, helping relieve supply pressure.

Iran continued its attacks on Saudi Arabia and Israel. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei claimed Iranians had delivered a “dizzying blow” to their enemies. Saudi Arabia intercepted over 20 drones, while Israel reported a new wave of missiles fired from Iran. Iran also targeted energy infrastructure, including Kuwait’s Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery and Qatar’s Ras Laffan gas facility.

In response, Israel launched strikes on Hezbollah positions in Beirut, while Turkey condemned Israeli strikes on Syrian army camps as a “dangerous escalation.” Syria has avoided direct involvement in the conflict so far.

Trump stated he is not seeking a ceasefire, saying, “I think we have won… You don’t do a ceasefire when you’re literally obliterating the other side.” He also said the US would no longer guard the Strait of Hormuz, leaving it to other nations, but may provide support if needed.

Trump reaffirmed that he does not plan to send ground troops into Iran, though reports suggest 2,200–2,500 additional US Marines are headed to the region. US strikes targeted Iran’s Kharg Island military facilities, leaving oil infrastructure untouched.

Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, marked Nowruz by claiming victory over the enemy, but has not appeared publicly since succeeding his father, Ali Khamenei.