Trump team expects Iran war could last through end of his term - WSJ
Donald Trump (photo: Getty Images)
Senior White House officials discussed with US President Donald Trump the possibility that the war with Iran could drag on until the end of his presidential term, according to The Wall Street Journal.
According to sources, the discussions took place in the Oval Office and the Situation Room and included US Vice President JD Vance, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and other officials.
Together, they discussed the scenario in which Iran could continue to resist US pressure despite the blockade and military actions. Moreover, Tehran could potentially prolong the conflict even after the inauguration of a new U.S. president in January 2029.
These closed-door talks took place after Trump told reporters on Wednesday that the war could end "immediately" after the November midterm elections, because Iranians "can no longer hold out."
The Wall Street Journal reports that a prolonged conflict would drain military resources and create a risk of long-term disruptions in global oil markets - just as the US presidential election campaign of 2028 begins to heat up.
According to officials, Trump frequently discusses with his aides in private his desire to end the war sooner rather than later, especially as the conflict has already lasted seven months and cost the lives of 18 American service members. At the same time, he supports a long-term economic blockade, using it and sanctions to pressure the regime into dismantling its nuclear program.
WSJ also notes that high-ranking aides privately acknowledging the conflict could last years contradicts Trump’s public assurances that the U.S. has already crippled Iranian forces and that the regime will soon surrender.
What else is important to know
Yesterday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Iran lost five tankers overnight. This happened after Tehran attempted to attack US warships in the region. According to Rubio, the US continues to economically "choke" Iran.
According to Reuters, Iran is facing unprecedented US economic pressure after six months of war. Sources say this could force Tehran to make concessions, including opening the Strait of Hormuz.
