U.S.-Iran War Update: Rubio Says Conflict Could End in Weeks as Strikes Escalate

Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed Friday that U.S. military operations against Iran are progressing ahead of schedule, with officials expecting the conflict to wrap up within weeks rather than months. Speaking after G7 talks in France, Rubio affirmed that Washington can achieve its core objectives without deploying ground troops, though he noted some troops are being sent to the region to give President Trump greater flexibility if circumstances change.

The war, which began February 28 when U.S. and Israeli airstrikes killed Iran's supreme leader and other top officials, has since triggered a sweeping Iranian counteroffensive. Iranian strikes have hit American and Israeli targets, disrupted Gulf Arab nations, and threatened global shipping lanes, sending oil prices soaring past $112 per barrel — more than 50% above pre-war levels. Diesel prices in California broke records, averaging $7.17 per gallon.

Tensions escalated further Friday after Iranian missiles and drones struck Prince Sultan airbase in Saudi Arabia, wounding 12 U.S. military personnel, including two critically. More than 300 American service members have been wounded throughout the conflict, and 13 have been killed. Iran also launched fresh missile strikes toward Israel, killing at least one person in the Tel Aviv area.

Despite ongoing strikes, diplomatic efforts are continuing. Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff said the U.S. hopes to meet with Iranian officials within a week. A 15-point U.S. proposal sent through Pakistan demands Iran abandon uranium enrichment, surrender its enriched uranium stockpile, and dismantle its missile program. Iran, however, has not confirmed any negotiations are underway.

Civilian casualties inside Iran have now exceeded 1,900 deaths and 20,000 injuries, according to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Global markets are reacting sharply, with stocks declining and recession fears intensifying as energy and commodity prices continue climbing.