Trump Declares 'Job Done,' Says U.S. Forces to Leave Iran in 2-3 Weeks

President says military goals achieved, including setting back Iran's nuclear program

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:08am

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President Donald Trump announced that U.S. forces will be withdrawing from Iran within the next two to three weeks, stating that the military's objectives have been accomplished, including significantly delaying Iran's ability to develop a nuclear weapon and achieving 'regime change' through the killings of Iranian political and military leaders.

Why it matters

The potential end of U.S. military operations in Iran would mark a major shift in the region's geopolitical landscape, with significant implications for global energy markets, international diplomacy, and the future of Iran's nuclear program and regional influence.

The details

Trump said the U.S. has 'set them back 15-20 years' and that Iran now has 'no navy, no military, no air force.' He added that the U.S. will leave Iran 'whether we have a deal or not,' noting that a deal is still possible since Iran 'wants to make a deal.' Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively closed to international shipping, Trump said the U.S. 'will not have anything to do with' the vital sea lane, leaving it up to countries that depend on it for energy supplies.

  • Trump said the U.S. forces will be out of Iran 'soon,' with military operations ending in as little as two or three weeks.
  • The U.S. and Israel launched their airborne offensive on Iran on February 28.

The players

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who announced the planned withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iran.

Masoud Pezeshkian

The reformist President of Iran who expressed Tehran's willingness to end the conflict provided it receives assurances of no future aggression.

Antonio Costa

The President of the European Council who urged Iran to de-escalate and show restraint, while stating the EU's readiness to contribute to diplomatic efforts to end the hostilities.

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What they’re saying

“We're finishing the job, and I think within maybe two weeks, maybe a couple of days longer, to do the job. We've set them back 15-20 years. They have no navy, no military, no air force.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States

“We possess the necessary will to end this conflict, provided that essential conditions are met, especially the guarantees required to prevent repetition of the aggression.”

— Masoud Pezeshkian, President of Iran

“The European Union stands ready to contribute to all diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and for a lasting solution to end the hostilities, while addressing the broader security concerns posed by Iran.”

— Antonio Costa, President of the European Council

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This announcement by President Trump marks a potential turning point in the U.S. involvement in the conflict with Iran, raising questions about the future of the region's geopolitical dynamics, energy security, and diplomatic efforts to address Iran's nuclear program and broader security concerns.