On April 14 local time, U.S. President Trump directly stated during a response to a Fox News reporter's question about the U.S.-Iran conflict: "The war is over."
Has the war truly ended?
Despite Trump's loud slogans, reality is far more complex—the claim of "the war being over" is currently more wishful thinking than fact. This statement itself functions as a carefully calculated "smokescreen," revealing a clear disconnect from actual battlefield conditions.
Trump’s unilateral declaration of victory serves two main purposes:
To address anti-war sentiment: The conflict has not only led to U.S. military casualties but also triggered a global surge in oil prices, exacerbating domestic inflation. Announcing an end aims to soothe public anxiety and respond to increasingly impatient public opinion.
To fulfill campaign promises: Presenting himself as a leader who avoids war, Trump needs to frame this conflict as a swift, successful "Thunderbolt Operation"—not a protracted quagmire—thereby solidifying his base support.
Although he claims "it’s over," U.S. forces have just blockaded the Strait of Hormuz, and aircraft carriers are en route to the Middle East. This "verbal ceasefire, operational escalation" strategy is designed to pressure Iran into accepting America’s harsh terms—such as surrendering enriched uranium—under greater military pressure.
In summary, Trump’s statement carries far more political symbolism than factual accuracy. He wants Americans to believe "I won," and Iran to understand "you lost—better negotiate now." Yet, the struggle on both the battlefield and the negotiation table continues fiercely.
Currently, Trump genuinely desires to withdraw, but Iran refuses to budge. Withdrawing under such circumstances would amount to his defeat—placing him in a deeply awkward position.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1862494865064076/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.