US-Iran war enters final phase but heavy strikes expected

The United States has indicated that its military campaign against Iran is entering its final phase, even as officials warn that some of the heaviest strikes of the conflict are still to come. In a national address from the White House, President Donald Trump said Washington was close to achieving its core strategic objectives following weeks of coordinated operations with Israel but stressed that further military action over the next two to three weeks would be necessary to secure those gains.

While the administration has presented the conflict as nearing completion, fighting across the region remains intense. Iran has continued to launch missile and drone attacks targeting Israeli cities as well as US-linked military positions in Gulf states, while Israeli defence systems remain active in intercepting incoming fire. Civilian casualties have been reported on multiple fronts, alongside damage to infrastructure in both Iran and neighbouring countries affected by the expanding conflict.

The war has also triggered significant disruption in global energy markets, driven largely by tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. The narrow waterway, through which around one-fifth of the world’s oil supply typically passes, has seen restricted traffic amid Iranian threats to keep it closed to its adversaries. This has pushed oil prices higher and raised concerns about prolonged supply constraints, with analysts warning that continued disruption could have far-reaching economic consequences.

Despite the escalation, Washington has signalled that diplomatic options remain under consideration. US officials have suggested that engagement with Iran’s current leadership may still be possible, describing it as more pragmatic than previous administrations. However, Tehran has rejected ceasefire proposals conveyed through intermediaries and denied any direct negotiations with the United States, highlighting the deep divide that continues to complicate efforts toward de-escalation.

At the same time, the broader regional impact of the conflict is becoming increasingly evident. Strikes and retaliatory actions have extended beyond Iran and Israel, affecting multiple countries across the Gulf and raising concerns about wider instability. Reports of attacks on infrastructure and military installations in several states underscore the risk of further escalation as the conflict unfolds.

Although US officials maintain that military objectives are close to being achieved, uncertainty remains over how and when the war will conclude. The coming weeks are expected to be critical, not only in determining the outcome of the conflict but also in shaping global energy markets, which remain highly sensitive to developments in the Strait of Hormuz and the wider Middle East.