Washington, March 10: US President Donald Trump has delivered conflicting messages about the progress and possible end of the ongoing US-Israel military campaign against Iran, creating uncertainty over Washington’s strategy while raising concerns in global markets and among American voters.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Trump insisted that the operation was progressing successfully but offered no clear timeline for when it might end. “I have a plan for everything. You’ll be very happy,” the president said when asked about the economic impact of the conflict, particularly rising oil prices.
In another interview, Trump suggested that the military campaign had already achieved significant results. “The war is very complete, pretty much,” he said, adding that the United States was “very far ahead of schedule.” However, when questioned about whether the operation could end soon, he responded ambiguously: “Wrapping up is all in my mind, nobody else’s.”
Within hours, the president’s tone shifted again. Trump said the United States could declare the mission successful immediately but also hinted at further military action. “We could call it a tremendous success right now… or we could go further,” he said. “We’re going to go further.”
Trump also warned Iran against threatening international oil shipping routes, particularly near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. “We will hit them so hard that it will not be possible for them or anybody else helping them to recover that section of the world,” he said.
The administration’s messaging appeared further complicated by comments from US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who suggested the military campaign was still in its early stages. In a television interview, Hegseth said the operation was “only just the beginning,” adding that the use of heavier conventional bombs on military targets had not yet fully started.
The war has already had noticeable economic consequences. Global oil prices surged to nearly $120 per barrel earlier in the week before retreating below $90 following Trump’s remarks aimed at calming markets. In the United States, the average gasoline price has risen to about $3.48 per gallon, increasing household concerns over inflation and living costs.
The economic pressure is becoming politically sensitive for the White House ahead of the upcoming US midterm elections. Rising fuel costs and broader affordability concerns remain major issues for American voters.
Some voters have begun expressing frustration over the conflict. Bob Stinnett, an independent voter in Georgia, said the rising energy prices could damage the economy. “I have supported Trump, but not for this,” he said.
Others questioned the necessity of US involvement in the war. Angie, a retired nurse, said she was worried about the financial impact on ordinary citizens.
Analysts warn the conflict could have broader global economic consequences. While the United States may be partly protected due to its domestic energy production, economies in Europe and Asia that depend heavily on energy imports could face sharper inflation and slower growth.
David Aikman of the National Institute of Economic and Social Research said higher energy costs will have widespread effects. “Everyone will be worse off because you have made a key factor of production more expensive,” he noted.
As the conflict continues, Trump’s shifting messages have left many observers uncertain about the true objectives of the campaign and how long it may last. For now, the military operation, its economic consequences, and the political response at home are likely to remain central issues for the administration.
