President Donald Trump said Tuesday that the United States could bring its conflict with Iran to a close within two to three weeks, signaling what he described as the final phase of a month-long war that has reshaped the Middle East and rattled global energy markets.

Trump added that the timeline could accelerate significantly if Iran chooses to return to the negotiating table, though he emphasized that U.S. operations would continue regardless. The President asserted that U.S. and Israeli strikes have already set Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure back by “15 to 20 years,” underscoring his administration’s central objective of preventing Tehran from ever acquiring nuclear weapons.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reinforced the administration’s position, noting that while Iran’s air defenses have been significantly degraded, the regime retains the ability to launch drone and missile attacks across the region. Pentagon officials confirmed that U.S. forces have expanded operations, including deploying B-52 Stratofortress bombers and targeting key infrastructure in and around Isfahan, a critical hub of Iran’s nuclear program.

Hegseth described a military force operating with urgency and precision following a recent visit to U.S. troops in the region.

Despite mounting pressure, Iran has continued retaliatory strikes, targeting Gulf energy infrastructure and threatening U.S.-linked corporations such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft. One recent attack ignited a Kuwaiti oil tanker near the United Arab Emirates, highlighting Tehran’s continued ability to disrupt regional stability.

Still, Hegseth downplayed the effectiveness of Iran’s response. “They will shoot some missiles — we will shoot them down,” he said, expressing confidence in U.S. and allied defense systems.

Diplomatic efforts remain ongoing. The Trump administration has reportedly advanced a 15-point peace proposal that would dramatically curtail Iran’s nuclear, missile, and drone programs while reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed indirect communication with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff but said Tehran has yet to formally respond and would not accept a temporary ceasefire.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry quickly rejected the claim as “false and baseless,” with officials stating no ceasefire request was made and that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps maintains full control of the strait.

Meanwhile, tensions between Washington and its European allies have intensified. Trump sharply criticized nations such as France, Spain, and Italy for restricting U.S. military access to airspace and bases during the conflict, suggesting that their reluctance could have long-term implications for NATO cooperation.

The Strait of Hormuz — through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply flows — remains a central flashpoint. Its disruption has driven Brent crude prices above $116 per barrel and pushed U.S. gas prices past $4 per gallon. However, markets rallied Tuesday on optimism that the war may soon wind down, with major U.S. indices posting significant gains.

Trump maintained that once U.S. operations conclude, the Strait will reopen and global energy markets will stabilize. The White House has framed the economic strain as a necessary, short-term cost to neutralize a long-standing threat.

Faith & Freedom News will carry live coverage of the President’s national address tonight at 9 p.m. ET. Follow FFN at fandfnews.com for continuous updates.