Top General Pushes for an Exit Strategy as Iran War Reaches a Crossroads

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine has privately urged Trump advisers to find an off-ramp from the Iran conflict, arguing that escalation options are limited and airpower alone won’t meet President Trump’s objectives. He’s discussed concerns with other top officials, including Ratcliffe, Rubio and Vance, while highlighting dwindling U.S. munitions stocks and the risks of ground combat. The goal is to avoid a broader war while seeking a “symbolic” win (potentially reopening the Strait of Hormuz) that could support any diplomatic path, all while carefully managing his relationship with Trump.