Iran13 March, 20261 min read
Trump Faces Internal Push as Advisers Urge Exit from Iran War
Several Trump advisers privately urge exit strategy, declare victory, end Iran war. Oil price surge fuels concerns about political backlash and duration of conflict.
White House Divisions
David Sacks urged ending the conflict and reaching an agreement with Tehran, contradicting Trump. Political advisers pushed to narrow the definition of victory while hawkish members pressed for continued attacks. Some sources estimated the war could last at least three more weeks.
Economic Costs Mount
The US had spent $12bn on the conflict just two weeks in. Markets remained jittery after Iranian threats to the Strait of Hormuz. The Atlantic Council warned the campaign was a high-risk gamble with unclear objectives.
Polling and Public Opinion
The Reuters/Ipsos poll found only 27% of Americans approved of the strikes. The Pentagon confirmed seven Americans killed since the war started. Trump continued to proclaim victory despite contradictory economic realities.
Assassination of Khamenei
The joint US-Israeli operation assassinated Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and top Iranian ministers. Israel bombed the Hafte Tir mosque in Tehran, killing an estimated 540 people. Iran retaliated with missile strikes on Israel and declared the Strait of Hormuz closed.