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On Thursday, US President Donald Trump stated that he had ended eight wars and believed that a similar outcome could be possible with Iran. While speaking at the NRCC Annual Fundraising Dinner, Trump mentioned that Iran wants to negotiate a deal but is reluctant to say so openly. He noted that the leaders of Iran are facing a lot of pressure, claiming that no leader has ever wanted their position less than the current Iranian leadership. Trump also pointed out that the US is making important strides in the Middle East and hinted at ongoing talks with Iran.

Trump defended his choice to leave the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the nuclear agreement from 2015 between Iran and other major countries. He insisted that Iran was not following the deal and stated that continuing the agreement would have allowed Iran to create a nuclear weapon in a short time. He also took aim at former President Barack Obama’s management of the agreement. Reflecting on previous actions, Trump mentioned the 2020 killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, labeling him as an "evil man" but acknowledging him as a strong leader. He asserted that this action had a significant effect on Iran’s leadership and showcased US strength internationally.

At the same time, Iran’s Parliament Speaker MB Ghalibaf cautioned that enemy nations might be plotting to take control of one of Iran’s islands. He declared that Iranian forces are vigilantly watching the situation and warned of severe consequences if any actions occur. Conversely, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the US has not met its key war goals against Iran, which include achieving a swift military win or instigating a change in government. In another note, reports suggest that the Pentagon has ordered about 2,000 extra US soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division to be sent to the Middle East. This addition is on top of two Marine Expeditionary Units already en route to the area from Japan and San Diego.