Donald Trump said on Monday that the war in the Middle East could end sooner than expected, even as people in Iran publicly demonstrated strong support for the country’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. The displays of loyalty suggested that Iran’s leadership and supporters were not prepared to retreat despite the ongoing conflict.
The contrasting developments created significant volatility in global markets. Oil prices initially surged while stock markets dropped sharply, reflecting fears of an expanding regional conflict. However, markets later shifted again after Trump suggested that the war might soon conclude and reports emerged that sanctions on Russian energy exports could potentially be eased.
Trump criticized Iran’s decision to elevate Mojtaba Khamenei, describing it as a serious mistake and reiterating his demand for Iran’s unconditional surrender. Despite his criticism, he predicted that the conflict might end sooner than the previously estimated timeline of four to five weeks.
Meanwhile, Iranian state media showed large crowds gathering in several cities to express their backing for the new leader. Demonstrators waved national flags and held portraits of his father, Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed during an Israeli strike at the beginning of the conflict. In the city of Isfahan, supporters assembled in Imam Square, chanting religious slogans while explosions from nearby airstrikes were reportedly heard.
Iran’s military also signaled defiance, announcing plans to intensify missile attacks. Political institutions and government officials issued statements pledging loyalty to the new leader, reinforcing the country’s unified stance during the conflict.
The war has severely disrupted global energy supplies, particularly after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Oil prices surged dramatically before retreating later in trading.
Airstrikes have also targeted Iran’s domestic energy infrastructure, including an oil refinery in Tehran, raising environmental concerns. The conflict has expanded across the region, with strikes reported in Iran and Beirut, while casualties continue to rise in multiple countries involved in the escalating war.
