President Donald Trump stated on April 20 that he is unlikely to renew the ceasefire with Iran if a deal to end the war is not reached by Wednesday evening Washington time. The truce, announced on April 7, is set to expire unless a new agreement is struck.
Trump also criticized media coverage of the conflict, claiming in a Truth Social post that Iran is confused about the war's progress due to what he called "Anti-America Fake News Media." He asserted that U.S. forces have significantly weakened Iran's military capabilities, including its navy and air force, and that a U.S. blockade on Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz is crippling the country.
The president emphasized that he will not rush into a peace deal, blaming Democrats for economic and political pressure. He denied being under pressure to make a deal, stating that time is not his adversary. Meanwhile, congressional Republicans are concerned about the war extending beyond the 60-day threshold stipulated by the War Powers Act, which would require congressional approval for further action.
A second round of peace talks between U.S. and Iranian officials is expected this week. Iran has resisted American demands to dismantle its nuclear program, and foreign policy hawks within Trump's party have warned against a deal that leaves Iran's enrichment capabilities intact.