President Donald Trump is considering “winding down” military operations in the Middle East, even as the United States deploys more troops and warships to the region amid an escalating war now entering its fourth week. Trump stated the U.S. is “very close to meeting its objectives” but ruled out a ceasefire with Iran, while also urging other nations to “guard and police” the Strait of Hormuz.
The president’s statements have been contradictory, struggling to justify the intervention as the conflict fuels inflation through strikes on energy sites and potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz. He also suggested there are “no leaders left in Iran to talk to” as military strikes continue.
Despite considering a wind down, more troops are preparing to deploy, countering Trump’s initial promise of a “short excursion.” The administration is also exploring lifting sanctions on Iranian oil to ease the energy crisis. Trump acknowledged considering winding down efforts in a social media post.
The situation has led to a crisis with surging global energy prices and U.S. isolation from allies, with Iran threatening to expand retaliatory attacks to include tourist sites worldwide. Trump now appears to have limited control over the war’s outcome or its messaging.