Trump says US might be 'winding down' war in Iran

US President Donald Trump has signalled that the US might be “winding down” its war on Iran as the conflict enters its third week.

Trump wrote on Truth Social that the United States was nearing its strategic goals and was considering scaling back its military involvement in the Middle East.

His comment comes despite reports that ground units are heading to the region.

Over the past few days, the US has been considering an occupation of Kharg Island, a strategically important island in the Persian Gulf that could aid the US to have a tighter grip on the Strait of Hormuz. 

Iran’s restriction of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for about 20% of global oil and gas shipments, along with repeated strikes on regional energy facilities, has driven oil prices sharply higher.

Trump’s comments on “winding down” US military operations as well as speculation over the occupation of Kharg Island stand in contrast to what was previously said. 

Throughout the war, Trump seemingly rejected a ceasefire and negotiations with Iran. He was likewise hesitant when it came to US boots on the ground in Iran.

With fears rising over oil supply disruptions and increasing prices, the US Department of the Treasury announced a temporary easing of sanctions on Iranian oil that had already been loaded onto ships.

Throughout the last few days, Trump has been increasingly critical of traditional US allies as they hesitated to aid the US in securing the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran carried out another series of drone and missile strikes targeting Saudi Arabia and Israel, following remarks by its supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei, who claimed the country had inflicted a powerful setback on its adversaries.