President Donald Trump has contradicted his own repeated assertions about the scale of US military success against Iran, stating in a Fox News interview that America had largely left Iran's military untouched. Speaking with his daughter-in-law Lara Trump on Saturday, the president said: 'Their military, we've sort of left it alone, because we think that their military is somewhat, somewhat moderate ... We've actually left their military alone. People would be surprised to hear that.'
This statement appears to break from Trump's previous claims of having obliterated Iran's armed forces. Earlier in the same interview, he had said Iran's navy and air force were 'totally gone'. However, moments later he reversed again, declaring: 'Iran is in a very bad position. They have no military, all they have is good talk and a fake press.'
The conflicting remarks come as the US remains locked in a stalemate with Iran after more than three months of war, despite earlier administration predictions of a swift victory. A shaky ceasefire is in place, and Trump is considering an offer to extend it for 60 days. Negotiations continue, but differences remain over Iran's nuclear programme and enrichment capabilities.
Some experts and supporters suggested Trump had misspoken, intending to refer to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) when he said 'no military'. But Representative Ted Lieu of California noted: 'I didn't hear trump say IRGC. He said military both times.' The confusion has raised questions about the administration's strategy, particularly as the US has failed to forcibly reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for global energy shipping.
The ceasefire extension deal, initially reported as finalised last Thursday, has yet to be signed. Vice President JD Vance said parts were still being adjusted. Gas prices have fallen slightly due to optimism over talks, but experts warn of potential increases if the conflict resumes.
