Trump Predicts Swift End to Iran Conflict, Vows Total Destruction
U.S. President Donald Trump has asserted that the United States could wrap up its military campaign in Iran in as little as two to three weeks, while issuing a stark warning that the objective is to obliterate "every single thing" belonging to Tehran. During a press briefing in the Oval Office on Tuesday, March 31, Trump outlined an aggressive timeline, stating, "We'll be leaving very soon. It could be within two weeks, maybe a couple of days longer to complete the mission. But our aim is to knock out every single thing they have."
"Put into the Stone Ages": Trump's Ultimatum on Iran
The president emphasized that hostilities would only cease once Iran is effectively "put into the Stone Ages," clarifying that a formal peace agreement is not a prerequisite for ending the operation. However, he cautioned that if diplomatic efforts falter, military strikes remain a viable option. Trump specifically mentioned targeting infrastructure, remarking, "We'll hit some bridges, got a couple of nice bridges in mind," underscoring the administration's readiness to escalate if necessary.
Since the inception of Operation Epic Fury on February 28, U.S. forces have conducted strikes on over 11,000 targets across Iran, as confirmed by Air Force General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Trump claimed that a key goal—preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons—has already been accomplished. He added, "Perhaps in the distant future, they might attempt to develop a nuclear weapon again, but then a president like me will return and decisively handle the situation."
Regime Change and Diplomatic Prospects
Despite previously downplaying it as a primary aim, Trump asserted that regime change in Iran has been achieved. Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed the sentiment of progress, telling Fox News host Sean Hannity, "We can see the finish line. It's not imminent, but it is approaching." Rubio warned that Iran aspired to become "the next North Korea," but with radical Shia clerics in control and intercontinental missiles capable of threatening the U.S. mainland.
Rubio also hinted at potential diplomatic engagements, noting, "Messages are being exchanged, talks are ongoing. There is potential for a direct meeting at some point." However, Iranian officials have consistently denied any negotiations with the United States. In a firm stance, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth stated, "We don't want to exceed necessary military actions, but we will negotiate with bombs until Iran agrees to come to the table. Our role is to compel Iran to recognize that making a deal is in the best interest of the new regime."
This development highlights the Trump administration's dual strategy of military pressure and conditional diplomacy, as the conflict in Iran enters a critical phase with predictions of a swift conclusion.
