As the US–Israel war on Iran entered its 33rd day on Wednesday, April 1, US President Donald Trump said Washington could wind down its military campaign within the next two to three weeks, signalling a potential shift in the month-long conflict that has roiled the Middle East and disrupted global energy markets.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said the US would be “leaving very soon”, adding that a withdrawal could take place “within two weeks, maybe two weeks, maybe three”.
He said the primary objective of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons had been achieved, indicating there was no longer a need for a prolonged military presence.
Trump signals possible end to Iran war
Trump said the US no longer requires an extended presence in Iran and indicated that reaching a deal with Tehran is not essential to ending military operations.
He warned that any future attempt by Iran to pursue nuclear weapons would be met with strong military action.
Rubio says ‘finish line’ in sight
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the “finish line” in the war is approaching as the conflict enters its fifth week.
Speaking to Fox News’s Hannity, Rubio said, “We can see the finish line. It’s not today, it’s not tomorrow, but it is coming,” adding that a direct meeting with Iranian officials could be possible.
Missile exchanges continue across Israel and Iran
Air raid sirens sounded across Israel following Iranian missile launches, Israeli media reported.
Missile fragments struck Bnei Brak near Tel Aviv, causing fires and damage, according to Yediot Aharonot. Explosions were also reported in Tehran, Al Jazeera said, as Israeli strikes continued.
Clashes intensify along Lebanon border
The Lebanese group Hezbollah said it targeted Israeli forces in southern Lebanon, including military vehicles and troop gatherings.
Israel said four soldiers were killed in close-range clashes, Israeli Channel 12 reported.
Civilian casualties reported in Beirut
Lebanon’s health ministry said Israeli air strikes killed at least five people and injured 21 in southern Beirut.
Additional casualties were reported in a separate strike south of the capital.
Regional spillover raises security concerns
Syrian state media reported explosions over Damascus linked to missile interceptions.
A tanker was struck near Doha, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said, adding there were no casualties.
Saudi Arabia reported intercepting two drones, while Bahrain issued warning sirens urging residents to seek shelter.
Kuwait opens alternative routes amid airspace closure
The two new routes will allow people leaving Kuwait to travel to either King Fahd International Airport in Dammam and Qaisumah Airport, according to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA).
Kuwait’s airport has been repeatedly targeted by Iranian attacks, and the country’s airspace has remained closed since February 28.
Israel faces strain on air defence systems
Israel is facing mounting pressure on its interception systems, Channel 13 reported.
The report said some defence systems currently in use were not designed to counter the scale of incoming missile threats.
Iran fires over 5,600 missiles, drones at 7 Arab countries in 32 days
Iran has launched at least 5,644 missiles and drones targeting US bases and critical sites across seven Arab countries over 32 days, according to Anadolu Agency.
US–Iran contacts remain indirect
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington is exchanging messages with Iran through intermediaries.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the contacts do not amount to negotiations and that Tehran has not responded to US proposals.
Israel outlines long-term strategy
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel is building new regional alliances to counter Iran.
Israeli officials said a buffer zone is planned in southern Lebanon to enhance border security.
Iran sets conditions to end conflict
Iran said it is ready to end hostilities if guarantees are provided against future attacks.
Officials added that the Strait of Hormuz remains open, while warning restrictions could be imposed on countries involved in military action against Iran.
Trump to address nation on Iran
The White House said Trump will address the nation at 9 PM ET on Wednesday to provide an update on Iran, according to Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on X.
Despite signals of a possible drawdown, continued strikes and regional tensions indicate the conflict remains volatile with no immediate resolution in sight.
