In a recent communication to Congress, President Donald Trump acknowledged the ambiguity surrounding the duration of U.S. military operations against Iran, stating it is “not possible at this time to know” how long these actions will persist.
This admission came as part of an official notification regarding Operation Epic Fury, which commenced on February 28. Trump’s letter outlined the lack of a definitive timeline for the military engagement.
“Although the United States desires a quick and enduring peace, it is not possible at this time to know the full scope and duration of military operations that may be necessary,” Trump conveyed in his correspondence on Monday.
Later that evening, Trump stirred concerns with a post on Truth Social, remarking that “wars can be fought forever.” This statement added to the uncertainty surrounding the conflict.
Previously, Trump had provided inconsistent estimates regarding the length of the bombing campaign, suggesting it could last “four to five weeks” during a Sunday address.
Under the War Powers Act, Trump was required to inform Congress within 48 hours of deploying troops. The legislation stipulates that troops must be withdrawn within 60 days unless Congress has declared war or authorized military force, with a potential 30-day extension.
In his letter, Trump characterized the threat posed by Iran as “untenable,” justifying the military response that has resulted in the deaths of six American service members and left 18 others seriously injured.
According to reports from the Red Crescent, the strikes have claimed at least 787 lives, including 176 children, as documented by Human Rights Activists in Iran.
Trump emphasized that the mission was executed with a focus on minimizing civilian casualties while deterring future attacks and countering Iran’s harmful activities.
In his Truth Social post, he asserted that the U.S. possesses a “virtually unlimited supply” of weapons. “The United States Munitions Stockpiles have, at the medium and upper medium grade, never been higher or better,” he stated. “Wars can be fought ‘forever,’ and very successfully, using just these supplies (which are better than other countries finest arms!).”
Despite backlash from some members of his MAGA base, including notable right-wing commentators like Tucker Carlson and Megyn Kelly, Trump remains steadfast. Kelly expressed “serious doubts” about the military action's justification given the loss of American lives, while Carlson labeled the bombing campaign as “absolutely disgusting and evil.”
In an interview with The Inner Circle on Monday night, Trump asserted that his supporters continue to back him. “I have to do what’s right, number one — and you can’t have Iran getting a nuclear weapon. That’s predominant to me,” he stated. “I think that MAGA is Trump — MAGA’s not the other two,” referring to Kelly and Carlson. “MAGA wants to see our country thrive and be safe. And MAGA loves what I’m doing — every aspect of it…”
