CNN: Trump advisers call him to declare victory in Iran amid rising political concerns

Some advisers to U.S. President Donald Trump are urging him to wind down the military campaign against Iran and declare victory as soon as possible, amid growing concerns inside the administration about the political risks of a prolonged conflict.

People familiar with internal discussions told CNN that several aides and close allies have privately pressed Trump to accelerate the timeline of the operation and bring it to a close, despite the president’s public insistence that he is prepared to continue fighting indefinitely.

“It’s a political risk, no ands, ifs or buts,” one Trump adviser said of the military campaign. “Let’s just hope something doesn’t go really wrong. Because if that happens, it’s going to be a problem.”

The push from some advisers comes only days after the United States launched its assault on Iran, a move that has already triggered concerns within the administration about the potential consequences of being drawn into a prolonged war with no clear endgame and limited public support.

While Trump has said he is willing to wage war on Iran “forever,” some of those around him believe the early stage of the conflict offers an opportunity to claim success and avoid deeper political fallout.

The conflict has already cost six American lives, and officials expect the number could rise in the coming days. Economic concerns are also mounting, with stock markets showing volatility and fuel prices rising — developments that could undermine key pillars of Trump’s political agenda ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

Public opinion also appears sceptical about the campaign. A recent poll by CNN found that nearly six in ten Americans disapprove of U.S. military action in Iran and believe a long-term conflict between the two countries is likely. Advisers fear that growing military casualties could further erode support among voters.

Despite those concerns, the administration has signalled that the operation may expand. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the military is moving into a new phase aimed at gaining control of Iranian airspace.

Trump has also indicated that there is no fixed timeline for the campaign, saying the priority remains completing military objectives and neutralising perceived threats from Iran.

By Sabina Mammadli