Trump Questions His Top Advisers as Iran War Lasts Longer Than Expected

US President Donald Trump is weighing who to blame for the Iran war. The war has lasted far longer than his advisers predicted, according to a report by The Atlantic published Sunday, November 1.

Trump is reportedly asking allies about Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine. Both men had told Trump the war would end quickly. The report cites two outside advisers close to Trump.

Trump has not made a final decision. He has not given any order to resume strikes.

Midterms Add Pressure

The US holds midterm elections on Tuesday, November 3. Trump is reportedly angry that the ongoing war may hurt Republican candidates. He is said to be weighing new strikes on Iran soon after the vote. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said no decision has been made.

One outside adviser told The Atlantic: “Hegseth is good at telling the president what he wants to hear.” Some people close to Trump say Hegseth gave an overly positive picture of the war.

The Pentagon rejected this claim. Spokesman Sean Parnell called the suggestion “dead wrong.” He said Hegseth gives the White House the full picture of the war. The White House also defended both men. Spokesperson Anna Kelly said Trump has “full confidence” in Hegseth and Caine.

A General Is Fired

Hegseth has fired or forced out more than two dozen generals and admirals during his time in office. Last week, he fired Lt. Gen. Brett Sylvia, the Joint Staff’s director of planning.

Officials told The Atlantic that Sylvia failed polygraph tests linked to leaks. Hegseth reportedly ordered at least three polygraphs after reports on White House talks and weapons shortages. The Joint Staff first thanked Sylvia for “32 years of distinguished service.” Hours later, it said that statement “did not appropriately reflect the full circumstances.”

Neither Hegseth nor Caine has held a press conference since May, according to The Atlantic.