Middle East war: Donald Trump signals ending Iran war, says 'will leave very soon'
Middle East war: US President Donald Trump on Tuesday signalled ending Washington's military campaign against Iran within next two to three weeks, putting an end to month-long conflict that disrupted global energy markets.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said, "We'll be leaving very soon," adding that the withdrawal could happen "within two weeks, maybe two weeks, maybe three," news agency Reuters quoted. The remarks marked his clearest indication yet that the US is preparing to wind down the operation.
He also asserted that a diplomatic agreement with Tehran is not necessary to end the war and said that the military operation would be ceased as Iran will be put into the 'stone ages' and will no longer possess ability to quickly develop nuclear weapon.
"Iran doesn't have to make a deal, no," he said, adding, "No, they don't have to make a deal with me."
Washington had previously warned that it could further escalate military operation if Tehran refuses to accept US ceasefire proposal including commitment by Iran not to pursue nuclear weapons, a complete halt to uranium enrichment and the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile Iran ahs threatened to target key US technologies in what they describe retaliation for attacks on Iranian territory. The statement named 18 companies, including Microsoft, Google, Apple, Intel, IBM, Tesla and Boeing, warning that their regional operations could be hit.
- With inputs from agencies
