President Donald Trump sent conflicting signals about the war with Iran, saying he was considering 'winding down' military efforts while his administration simultaneously deployed additional forces to the Middle East and eased certain oil sanctions on Tehran. The mixed messaging has raised fresh questions about the administration’s long-term strategy as the conflict enters its fourth week and continues to unsettle global markets.

Even as Trump suggested the United States had achieved key objectives, including degrading Iran’s military capacity, the administration announced the deployment of three more warships and about 2,500 Marines to the region. Roughly 50,000 American personnel are now supporting the war effort, and the Defense Department is reportedly seeking an additional 200 billion dollars from Congress, signaling preparations for a prolonged engagement.

At the same time, the administration temporarily lifted sanctions on Iranian oil already at sea in an effort to ease soaring energy prices. The move is intended to add about 140 million barrels to global supply, though analysts say that amount represents only a few days of worldwide consumption and is unlikely to significantly reduce fuel costs while disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz continue. The combination of military escalation and economic relief for Iran has drawn criticism from both political opponents and some members of Trump’s own party.