Andrew Neil says Donald Trump is attempting to disengage from the Iran conflict even as Gulf allies fear abandonment, oil routes remain threatened, and economic fallout spreads across global markets.
By TRH World Desk
New Delhi, May 8, 2026 — Veteran British columnist and broadcaster Andrew Neil has warned that US President Donald Trump is seeking a rapid exit from the escalating conflict with Iran, even as tensions continue to destabilize the Gulf region and global energy markets.
Speaking to Times Radio, Neil said the White House’s messaging on the war had become increasingly contradictory, pointing to confusion even within the US administration. He noted that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had declared “Operation Epic Fury” over, only for Trump to later threaten harsher military action unless Iran accepted Washington’s proposed peace framework.
Neil argued that Trump’s actions suggest a president eager to “extricate himself” from the conflict as quickly as possible. According to him, Gulf allies are increasingly concerned that Washington may abandon the region despite renewed Iranian attacks, including strikes on the UAE, one of America’s closest regional partners.
He also cited the abrupt suspension of “Project Freedom,” a US-backed initiative intended to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz after Iranian disruptions to shipping lanes. Neil said the operation was quietly shelved once it appeared likely to trigger direct US-Iran hostilities.
At the center of Trump’s diplomatic push is a reported 14-point peace proposal designed to launch month-long negotiations with Tehran. But Neil described the framework as little more than “an American wish list,” adding that Iran appears more interested in prolonging talks than reaching a quick settlement.
He warned that major disagreements remain unresolved, including sanctions relief, Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile, frozen overseas assets, and control of the Strait of Hormuz. Neil further noted that the proposal reportedly avoids addressing Iran’s missile arsenal and its regional proxy networks.
The commentator said prolonged instability could have severe economic consequences beyond the Middle East. US gasoline prices have reportedly surged above $4.50 per gallon, while fears of jet fuel shortages and rising airfares are growing ahead of the holiday travel season.
Neil concluded that even if Washington retreats militarily, America will not escape the economic fallout of a conflict that continues to disrupt global energy and trade routes.
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