In a statement posted on his platform Truth Social, Trump said U.S. forces were "very close to achieving our goals” and that his administration was reviewing whether to scale back what he described as "great military efforts in the Middle East” targeting what he called the Iranian regime. The remarks mark one of the clearest indications yet that Washington may shift its operational posture if current gains are sustained.

According to Trump, the campaign’s objectives include degrading Iran’s missile capabilities, dismantling its defense industrial base, neutralizing naval and air power, and preventing Tehran from approaching nuclear weapons capability. He also emphasized the protection of U.S. allies across the region as a central aim.

At a White House event attended by naval academy students, Trump praised the performance of U.S. forces, saying operations in Iran were proceeding "very well.” He added that no global force could defeat the U.S. military, asserting there was "no real competition” from Iran.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the administration anticipates the operation could last between four and six weeks, noting that three weeks would be completed by Saturday. "The president is focused very precisely on one outcome: a complete and total victory,” she told reporters during a briefing.

While official statements highlight progress, on-the-ground accounts suggest a tense regional atmosphere. In parts of the Middle East hosting U.S. military assets, increased security checkpoints and visible troop movements have become routine. A shopkeeper in a Gulf city, speaking on the record, described heightened anxiety among residents. "We see more patrols every day, and people are watching the news constantly,” he said. "Everyone is waiting to see what happens next.”

The current escalation follows years of strained relations between Washington and Tehran, particularly over Iran’s nuclear program and regional influence. Analysts say the latest campaign reflects a more direct military approach compared to previous strategies centered on sanctions and diplomatic pressure.

Regional observers note that a potential drawdown, if confirmed, could signal a shift toward consolidation rather than escalation. However, they caution that the durability of any gains will depend on Iran’s response and the broader geopolitical balance.

For regional populations, including travelers and businesses operating across the Gulf and neighboring areas, the trajectory of the conflict carries immediate implications for security, trade routes, and economic stability.