Trump Says Iran War May End Soon as Israel Signals a Longer Fight

by | Mar 11, 2026 | News

A growing gap appears to be emerging between Washington and Jerusalem over how long the war with Iran should continue.

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that the war could end soon, claiming there is “practically nothing left to target” in Iran. He suggested the conflict has moved faster than expected and said the US and Israel have already inflicted more damage than originally anticipated in what had been envisioned as a six-week campaign.

Israel, however, is signaling no rush to stop.

Defense Minister ישראל כ״ץ said the military operation will continue without a time limit until all objectives are achieved. He said the goal is not only to damage Iran’s military structure, but also to create conditions that could allow the Iranian people to rise up against the regime.

The difference in tone comes as Iranian missile salvos continue to target Israel. On Wednesday alone, several barrages sent millions into shelters, though no major injuries were reported.

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir said thousands of Iranian soldiers and commanders have been killed so far, warning that “no one is immune.” He also linked the campaign to broader efforts against Hezbollah and Iran’s regional network.

Israeli officials reportedly believe the military phase may end sooner than any possible regime collapse in Iran. Some estimates suggest that if the regime does fall, it could take many months and depend largely on internal Iranian action rather than airstrikes alone.

As missiles continue and goals remain in flux, the biggest unanswered question may now be whether Trump decides the war is over before Israel believes its mission is complete.

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