• Trump claims US-Iran conflict may conclude 'very soon' and calls it a 'short-term excursion.'
• The war has caused a spike in oil prices and instability in global markets.
• Iran vows to continue its military actions amidst US-Israeli assaults.
• Trump warns Iran of 'incalculable' retaliatory attacks if they block oil supply.
• Market responses reflect uncertainty despite Trump's optimistic outlook on the war's duration.

US President Donald Trump indicated that the war with Iran could be coming to a conclusion soon, describing it as a "short-term excursion" while also highlighting the military successes achieved thus far. He stated that the operation was "very complete" and expressed confidence that the US and Israel were ahead of schedule in their military objectives, which included attacking key Iranian military infrastructure since the conflict began on February 28, resulting in significant casualties, including the death of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, according to Dawn and Channel News Asia.

Trump's remarks were echoed in his discussions with congressional Republicans, emphasizing that the "big risk of that war has been over for three days," claiming an overwhelming destruction of military assets in Iran. The operation has reportedly targeted around 5,000 sites, drastically degrading Iran’s missile and drone capabilities, as noted by AA and Le Monde.

However, concurrent with Trump's declaration of potential victory, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated the country would continue to fight as long as necessary, signaling a willingness to escalate attacks against U.S.-aligned nations in the Gulf region. The Iranian stance complicates Trump's assertions of imminent conflict resolution, as they prepare to respond to ongoing airstrikes, reported by Africa News and Al Jazeera.

Financial markets reacted positively to Trump's remarks about the war's potential conclusion; however, oil prices had surged due to concerns over supply disruptions, particularly through the crucial Strait of Hormuz. Trump's warning that any interference with oil transport would result in a severe retaliation was aimed at deterring any Iranian aggression that could harm global oil supply chains, emphasized by Le Monde and India Times.

Despite Trump's optimistic projections, the situation remains precarious as Iranian military responses continue to escalate, indicating a prolonged conflict may still be possible. Iran's Revolutionary Guard indicated that the decision to end hostilities lies with them, suggesting a complex path ahead as diplomatic resolutions remain unfeasible at this time, according to Al Jazeera and AA.