Pentagon extends MidEast deployments into 2027 even as Trump mulls declaring war over – report

The US military is extending its deployments across the Middle East until 2027, anticipating a prolonged conflict with Iran, according to a Wall Street Journal report. This comes as President Trump privately considers declaring the "Iran war over," believing economic pressure could dismantle Iran's nuclear program or collapse its regime. Despite this, the US maintains approximately 50,000 troops, 19 warships, and various air units in the region, a significant increase from initial plans. These extended deployments are causing considerable strain on US service members, their families, and military equipment, with some units experiencing longer missions and maintenance delays. The military presence aims to provide Trump with options ranging from continued economic pressure to potential military operations, including intensified airstrikes or capturing Iranian islands. Trump stated, "I like our position now much better, with almost total control of the Hormuz Strait, and their economy totally collapsing."