Trump Claims Iran War ‘Remarkably Complete’ as Airlines Halt Flights
Washington – President Donald Trump has indicated the conflict in Iran is nearing its end, describing it as a “short-term excursion” while also warning of potential escalation if key oil routes are disrupted. The statements come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and a wave of flight cancellations by major international airlines.
Speaking to House Republicans and donors in Doral, Florida, on March 9, 2026, Trump stated, “We took a little excursion since we felt we had to do that to get rid of some evil. And I think you’ll notice it’s going to be a short-term excursion.” He added, “How good is our military, right? Amazing. How good? Short term.”
The President’s comments followed a news conference where he reiterated the conflict would be “ended soon.” Steve Witkoff, the U.S. Special envoy to the Middle East, was present during the announcement. While Trump did not provide a specific timeline, he suggested the situation was progressing towards resolution.
These remarks followed those of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who in a “60 Minutes” interview, described the attacks as “only just the beginning.” Trump acknowledged both perspectives, stating, “I think you could say both.”
The conflict has already had economic repercussions, with crude oil prices soaring above $100 a barrel for the first time since July 2022. According to AAA, the average price of a gallon of regular gas has risen to $3.48, up from $2.90 a month ago.
Several airlines have suspended flights to the Middle East in response to the escalating tensions. Air France, KLM, Lufthansa, SWISS, and United Airlines are among those affected, leaving thousands of passengers stranded or scrambling to rebook travel plans. KLM has cancelled flights to Dubai through the end of March 28th.
Meanwhile, Trump has also asserted that the U.S. Has “almost nothing left to attack” in Iran. This statement, echoed in multiple reports, suggests a diminishing number of strategic targets remaining in the region.
International aid organizations are responding to the humanitarian impact of the conflict. Dutch Relief has allocated three million euros for emergency aid to Lebanon, providing food, water, and psychosocial support through partnerships with organizations including CARE Nederland and War Child. The Dutch Red Cross has also contributed an additional 500,000 euros to the Lebanese Red Cross to support ambulance services, search and rescue operations, and medical assistance.
The FBI has reportedly warned police departments in California about potential Iranian attacks on the state, according to multiple anonymous sources. The development underscores growing regional tensions and the potential for escalation beyond the immediate conflict zone.
