Trump’s mixed messages on Iran: ‘Winding down’ war and easing sanctions but adding more troops

In the past 24 hours, Trump has sent a torrent of mixed signals about the Iran war that raise more questions about the direction of the conflict

President Donald Trump speaks with reporters before departing on Marine One from the South Lawn of the White House, Friday, March 20, 2026, in Washington. Picture: AP Photo/Alex Brandon

US President Donald Trump frequently contradicts himself, sometimes in the same speech, social media post or even sentence. 

In the past 24 hours, he sent a torrent of mixed signals about the Iran war that raise more questions about the direction of the conflict and his administration’s strategy.