US officials expect Iran war to last 4 to 6 weeks total — at least two more weeks of fighting remain

US administration officials told CNN on March 16 that they expect the war with Iran to last four to six weeks in total. With the conflict beginning on February 28, this projection places the expected end date between March 28 and April 11 — meaning at least two more weeks of fighting remain as of Day 17. Officials noted the US and Israel have found success in degrading much of Iran's missile arsenal, air defenses and navy, but acknowledged the hardline regime remains in power and continues to demonstrate an ability to disrupt global energy trade through Hormuz and Gulf attacks. Iran FM Araghchi on Day 17 explicitly rejected ceasefire talks and said Iran is ready to take the war 'as far as necessary.' The 4-6 week estimate was described as a continuing assessment by administration officials. Treasury Secretary Bessent separately noted that any energy price mitigation tools 'will depend on the duration of the conflict,' suggesting the White House is actively war-gaming duration scenarios.