Trump’s top general urges de-escalation as Iran war options narrow: Report

U.S. military leadership has privately advised the Trump administration to seek de-escalation with Iran, fearing that further military action could be ineffective and risk a broader regional conflict. Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, reportedly conveyed these concerns to senior officials, including the CIA director and Secretary of State.

Sources familiar with the discussions indicated that Caine and others doubt airpower alone can compel Tehran to meet U.S. demands. President Trump has consistently opposed deploying ground troops. A proposed military escalation in late July was reportedly postponed after Gulf partners warned of potential Iranian retaliation against allies and vital energy infrastructure.

Concerns are also mounting over dwindling U.S. weapons stocks, particularly air-defense interceptors and precision-guided munitions. This could hamper Washington's ability to sustain a prolonged conflict. Despite these warnings, Caine has reportedly informed Trump that U.S. forces possess the capability to inflict significant damage on Iran if ordered to escalate.

Meanwhile, administration officials are reportedly considering diplomatic options that could be framed as a political win for Trump. One such avenue involves an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route, signaling a potential shift toward diplomacy amid heightened tensions.

“

US Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine has privately urged senior Trump administration officials to explore ways to de-escalate the war with Iran, amid concerns that further military action could deliver limited results while provoking a broader regional conflict, CNN reported Friday.