Trump Predicts Iran War’s Imminent End Amidst Strait of Hormuz Closure and Oil Price Surge

As the conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran enters its second week, President Donald Trump has signaled an anticipated swift conclusion to military operations. This comes as Iran continues to disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil transport, leading to a spike in oil prices and a reassessment of energy sanctions.

Escalating Conflict and US Military Action

The US-Israeli military campaign against Iran began on February 28, 2026, following what officials describe as efforts to disrupt Iran’s nuclear weapons program. As of March 13, 2026, the US Defense Secretary Pete Hegsett announced that over 15,000 targets in Iran had already been struck Fox News.

Strait of Hormuz Closure and Oil Market Impact

A significant consequence of the conflict has been Iran’s effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply. This disruption has triggered a surge in oil prices, exceeding $100 a barrel earlier this week Fox News.

US Response: Lifting Sanctions on Russian Oil

In an attempt to mitigate the impact of rising oil prices, the United States has taken steps to lift some of the sanctions previously imposed on Russian oil due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. This move aims to increase global oil supply and stabilize prices Fox News.

Trump’s Shifting Outlook and Predictions

President Trump has offered varying assessments of the war’s duration. Initially suggesting a campaign lasting “four to five weeks,” he has since indicated a quicker resolution. In a recent interview with Axios, Trump stated the war would end “soon” because “there is practically nothing left to target” Yahoo News. He further elaborated in a Fox News Radio interview on March 13, 2026, that the conflict would cease when “I feel it in my bones” Yahoo News.

Concerns About Iran’s Leadership and Potential Internal Uprising

During a radio interview, Trump expressed skepticism about the current state of Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, suggesting he may be “damaged” but likely still alive The Daily Beast. He also speculated that the Iranian people might eventually overthrow their leadership, acknowledging the difficulty of such an uprising given the lack of access to weapons The Daily Beast.

Tehran’s Stance and Potential Escalation

Iranian officials have vowed to maintain pressure on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and warned that the conflict could escalate if attacks on Iran persist Fox News.

As the situation evolves, the world watches closely for signs of de-escalation and a return to stability in the region.