US President Donald Trump is reportedly prepared to end the ongoing conflict with Iran even if the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz remains closed, marking a potential shift in Washington’s war objectives.

According to The Kobeissi Letter, Trump and his senior advisers concluded that any large-scale military operation to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could prolong the conflict far beyond the administration’s preferred four-to-six-week timeline.

Instead, US leadership is said to be prioritizing the degradation of Iran’s naval forces and missile stockpiles as the primary military goals before scaling back active combat operations.

Officials indicated that Washington intends to move from direct military confrontation toward intensified diplomatic pressure aimed at restoring the “free flow of trade” through the Gulf. If negotiations fail, the United States may encourage European and Gulf allies to assume responsibility for reopening the critical maritime corridor.

Financial markets reacted swiftly to the developments, with US stock market futures moving higher following reports of a possible de-escalation strategy.

Despite discussions about ending hostilities, the Hormuz chokepoint could remain inaccessible to US and allied vessels. Global energy markets remain on edge, with crude oil prices climbing above $102 per barrel and insurance premiums for Gulf shipping routes tripling since early March.

Market analysts noted on social media platform X that even a formal ceasefire may not immediately restore oil flows, leaving global supply chains exposed and tanker freight costs elevated amid growing investor interest in US energy exchange-traded funds.

Meanwhile, indirect diplomatic contacts between Washington and Tehran are ongoing, with Pakistan reportedly facilitating communication channels. Iran has presented five conditions for a ceasefire, including an immediate halt to attacks and compensation for damages, while US negotiators issued a 15-point proposal that Tehran rejected as “illogical.”