Donald Trump says he is considering ‘winding down’ Iran conflict after gas field strike fallout

Donald Trump said Friday that he is considering “winding down” US military operations against Iran, signalling that key objectives may soon be achieved even as tensions remain high.

His remarks come amid intensified Iranian retaliation following US and Israeli strikes launched on February 28. The conflict escalated further this week after Israel hit a major Iranian gas field, prompting Iran to target a key LNG facility in Qatar located across the same field. The exchange sent global oil and gas prices sharply higher.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the US was “very close” to meeting its goals against what he called the “terror regime of Iran,” marking his clearest indication yet that hostilities could soon ease. He had earlier said Israel would refrain from further strikes on the Iranian gas field.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the administration had anticipated a 4–6 week timeline for the mission, noting that the campaign is now in its third week and progressing as planned.

Meanwhile, Iran claimed its air defences had “seriously damaged” a US F-35 stealth fighter — which would mark a first — though US Central Command said the aircraft made an emergency landing and the pilot was stable.

With rising concerns over energy markets, the US has also taken steps to ease supply pressures. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a temporary lifting of sanctions on Iranian oil already loaded onto ships before March 20, allowing sales through April 19.

The move is expected to release roughly 140 million barrels of oil into global markets, helping to stabilise prices and offset supply disruptions caused by the conflict.