As tensions between the U.S. and Iran enter their 12th day, conflicting statements from leaders on both sides have left the international community questioning the trajectory of the conflict. U.S. President Donald Trump stated on March 12, 2026, that military strikes against Iran will conclude "soon," citing diminishing targets. However, Axios reported that U.S. and Israeli officials are preparing for at least two more weeks of operations, with no formal directive to halt strikes.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian outlined three non-negotiable conditions for peace during a call with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif: recognition of Iran\u2019s "legitimate rights," reparations for damages, and binding international guarantees against future aggression. Pezeshkian emphasized Iran\u2019s commitment to self-defense, stating it would only target facilities used to attack its territory.
The conflict, which began on February 28, has reportedly claimed over 1,300 civilian lives and destroyed 9,669 civilian sites in Iran, according to Iran\u2019s UN ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani. Analysts warn prolonged hostilities could destabilize regional trade routes and energy markets, with implications for global investors monitoring Asian economic corridors.
