• Statement signals growing impatience as the conflict drags into its fifth week.
• Oil prices surged, with Brent near $118, fueling a global energy shock.
• US consumers hit hard: gas ~$4, diesel near $5.50, increasing inflation pressure.
• Despite exit talk, the US continues military build-up and keeps escalation options open.
• Iran signals willingness to negotiate, but demands guarantees against future attacks.
• Markets reacted positively on hopes of de-escalation, lifting equities.
• Core US objective remains preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
