Trump's Iran War Rhetoric Clashes with Ongoing Military Realities

As the U.S.-led clashes with Iran drag into a third month, President Trump has issued a string of contradictory statements about progress, duration, and negotiations, at times saying the war is won or nearing an end while extending a ceasefire and ordering actions; meanwhile casualties have mounted on both sides and naval operations—including tanker boardings and the arrival of a third carrier in the region—keep the focus on the Strait of Hormuz.