Trump gets conflicting messages as he seeks an exit ramp from the Iran war

Saudi Arabia has urged President Donald Trump to de-escalate the war with Iran, warning that prolonging the conflict carries significant risks. Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman delivered this message during an unannounced visit to Washington, meeting with Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

The Saudi delegation's visit followed a meeting where Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed skepticism about diplomatic solutions with Iran. Netanyahu and Trump discussed options for pressuring Iran, including the possibility of renewing a full-scale war, according to Israeli officials.

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I think we just want to win.

These back-to--back meetings highlight the complex pressures Trump faces as he seeks to end a conflict that has already surpassed his self-imposed deadline. While some Republicans are pushing for a withdrawal, the war appears to be expanding, drawing in regional countries and opening new fronts.

Diplomatic efforts have been halting, with a senior U.S. official stating that resuming direct diplomacy with Iran is not imminent. Despite Trump's claims that Iran is eager for a deal, some U.S. officials fear Tehran is more committed than ever to leveraging the Strait of Hormuz and threatening American troops. Trump has reportedly grown frustrated with Iran's unwillingness to meet his demands, leading to tense behind-the-scenes meetings and calls with allies.

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They’ll get weaker. They’ll get a little stronger maybe now. Then they’ll get weaker. And then they’ll peter out.