President Trump announced Tuesday the United States would wrap up its military campaign in Iran within two to three weeks, with plans to address the nation Wednesday evening. The president claimed success in dealing with Iran's nuclear program and predicted gasoline prices would drop as the conflict concludes, despite global oil markets already reeling from the war's disruption and skyrocketing energy costs.

Despite signals of potential de-escalation, Trump has left open the possibility of military escalation as U.S. forces continue reaching the region. Secretary of State Marco Rubio argued the administration achieved its primary goal of preventing Iran from building a nuclear weapon, though Iran still possesses near-bomb-grade nuclear material at the Isfahan site that requires risky handling.

The president has floated risky options including attacking Kharg Island, Iran's primary oil export hub, or seizing Persian Gulf islands to reopen the critical Strait of Hormuz. Trump put the onus on NATO allies to restore shipping through the vital energy chokepoint, warning "the U.S.A. won't be there to help you anymore" as global oil prices skyrocket.