According to a report by Reuters on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump has said the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran could end in the near future because, in his assessment, military strikes have so far destroyed nearly all key targets inside Iran.
In a phone interview with Axios on March 11, 2026, Trump said the ongoing conflict could be drawing to a close because there is “practically nothing left to target” after weeks of joint U.S. and Israeli air and missile operations against Iranian infrastructure.
“Little this and that… Any time I want it to end, it will end,” Trump said, suggesting that the military phase of the engagement could be concluded at his discretion once he decides the objectives have been met.
The war, which began on February 28, 2026, was triggered by coordinated strikes by U.S. and Israeli forces aimed at dismantling Iran’s military capabilities and reducing its ability to threaten regional security, particularly with regard to missile and nuclear programs.
Trump’s remarks reflect his belief that U.S. forces have achieved significant tactical success. However, officials from the U.S. Department of Defense and the Israeli military have indicated that no formal order has yet been issued to end combat operations, and planning continues for further actions if necessary.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has said the campaign will continue “without any time limit, for as long as necessary, until we achieve all the objectives and decisively win the campaign,” stressing that the operational timeline remains open.
Despite Trump’s assertions of a depleting list of targets in Iran, tensions remain high. Intelligence reports indicate Iran has begun laying mines in strategic waterways like the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil shipments, raising concerns about prolonged economic and military instability in the region.
CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper said U.S. military efforts are aimed at eliminating Iran’s capacity to project power and threaten international maritime security. He added that while Iranian missile and drone attacks have declined, the U.S. mission remains focused on weakening Tehran’s ability to disrupt shipping and regional stability.