Trump weighs declaring an end to Iran war
RastinewsUS President Donald Trump has reportedly discussed with senior advisers the option of declaring an end to the six-month war with Iran. As the Washington administration steps up economic pressure, the Pentagon's extension of troop deployments in the region until 2027 suggests the war may not end in the short term.
According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ), citing sources familiar with the matter, Trump has recently discussed with senior advisers whether to declare an end to the Iran war.
The report said Trump is favorably inclined toward this option, but prefers to maintain economic pressure on Iran. The Washington administration believes sanctions and economic pressure could force Tehran to abandon its nuclear program or return to the negotiating table.
However, the military picture on the ground gives no clear indication that the war will end soon.
Pentagon extends deployments
According to the WSJ, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has quietly extended the deployment periods of some American units in the Middle East. Some units are expected to remain in the region until 2027.
The US has about 50,000 troops in the region. The American navy also has 19 warships deployed there, including two aircraft carriers and 13 guided-missile destroyers.
Air defense units' deployment periods, normally nine months, have reportedly been extended to 12 months, with some units having been in the region for more than a year.
American forces' duties include intercepting Iranian missiles and drones, protecting commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, and enforcing the blockade on Iranian ports.
The prolonged deployments are reportedly straining the US military's personnel and equipment.
Trump emphasizes economic pressure
In recent weeks, the Trump administration has increased pressure targeting Iran's economy alongside military operations.
However, there is no indication that Tehran is backing down. Mutual attacks between the US and Iran around the Strait of Hormuz also continue.
Speaking at the Oval Office on September 2, Trump said recent American strikes had hit radar and missile systems Iran was trying to rebuild around Hormuz. The US president also said the US was ready to carry out new strikes if necessary.
According to Reuters, Trump said in the same remarks that he did not expect the renewed American military campaign against Iran to last long.
Midterm elections also on Washington's agenda
According to Reuters, citing four sources, Trump's senior advisers want to prevent the Iran war from escalating into a full-scale conflict again before the midterm elections on November 3.
The sources said the option of intensifying military operations again after the elections could also be considered at the White House. However, there is no indication that such a decision has been made.
Trump, for his part, maintains that the upcoming elections are not a determining factor in his Iran policy.
Despite the debate in Washington over ending the war, the Pentagon's preparations to sustain its military presence in the region over the long term suggest the US is keeping both diplomatic and economic pressure and the military option open on Iran.
Sources: The Wall Street Journal, Reuters