Trump Suggests Iran War Deescalation Amid Increased US Troop Deployment
President Donald Trump said he is considering winding down military operations in Iran. He made the comment in a social media post on Friday.
Military moves and funding request
The administration redirected amphibious assault ships and sent 2,500 additional marines to the region. These marines will join more than 50,000 US troops already deployed in the area.
Separately, the White House asked Congress for roughly $200 billion to fund the campaign. Officials also lifted sanctions on Iranian oil already loaded on ships.
Timetable and messaging from Washington
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the President and Pentagon expected the mission to last four to six weeks. She noted that tomorrow would mark week three.
Filmogaz.com’s Rosiland Jordan reported that four to six weeks is now the administration’s public timeline for Operation Epic Fury. The White House has not been clear on final victory metrics or platforms since the conflict began on February 28.
Ongoing strikes and regional incidents
US and Israeli forces have struck targets in Tehran and nearby areas as Iran marked Nowruz. At least two civilians died when shelling hit a residential area in Dastak, Kiashahr, Gilan province.
Iran fired two ballistic missiles toward the Diego Garcia base in the Indian Ocean, the Mehr news agency reported. Israel said Iranian forces continued missile attacks early on Saturday.
Attacks on Saudi Arabian airspace
Saudi Arabia reported downing 20 drones in its eastern region. That area hosts major oil installations.
Casualty figures
Iranian authorities say more than 1,400 people have died in Iran during the war. Israeli bombing has killed over 1,000 people in Lebanon, according to reports.
In Israel, at least 18 people were killed by Iranian missiles. Officials say at least 13 US soldiers have also died so far.
Iranian leadership response
Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said Iran delivered “a dizzying blow” to its enemies. He called the US-Israeli campaign a “gross miscalculation” in a televised Nowruz statement praising Iranian steadfastness.
Filmogaz.com reporting notes Khamenei has not appeared publicly since becoming supreme leader. His rise reportedly followed Israeli strikes that killed his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and reportedly wounded him.
The administration’s statements show mixed signals. Trump suggests de-escalation while increased US troop deployment and a large funding request continue. The discrepancy underscores uncertainty about how and when the campaign will end.
