While President Donald Trump is projecting confidence about a nearing end to the protracted war in Iran that has progressed into its sixth month — with back-and-forth air strikes starting up again this week — the Pentagon is reportedly taking steps to extend the deployment of U.S. troops in the region.

The Wall Street Journal reports that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth intends to prolong the deployment of about 50,000 troops currently in the Middle East into 2027, per sources familiar with the discussions. According to the Journal, this will apply to currently deployed paratroopers, air-defense units, and fighter squadrons as well as 19 warships stationed throughout the region.

Meanwhile Trump apparently once again believes the war is at or near its end. Per the Journal:

Privately, Trump is having discussions with senior aides about whether to declare the Iran war over, U.S. officials said, noting Trump has said he favors the idea. Trump also tells aides that he believes sticking with economic pressure will eventually force the regime either to dismantle its nuclear program or collapse, they said.

Privately, Trump is having discussions with senior aides about whether to declare........

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