As the ongoing Iran war entered the third week, US President Donald Trump was warned by his senior advisers that the conflict was becoming increasingly unpopular at home, threatening his public support and Republican prospects in the upcoming midterm elections.

Surveys conducted by Trump’s pollster indicated growing public disapproval as gas prices surged past $4 per gallon, stock markets tumbled, and 13 American service members were confirmed killed.

White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles urged aides to give President Trump a clear view of the political and economic risks rather than a rosy assessment.

Trump has expressed frustration at the mounting costs and sought ways to wind down the campaign while achieving decisive military objectives.

In a primetime address on April 1, he highlighted battlefield successes and said the operation was “nearing its completion,” while also warning of continued strikes against Iran’s energy infrastructure.

Despite claiming the military operation has been largely successful, with Iran’s missile capacity degraded and leadership targeted, the White House acknowledges that achieving broader objectives — including blocking Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and reshaping its regime — is unlikely on the current timeline.

Trump’s advisers note that Iran’s retaliation has been more extensive than expected, including missile and drone attacks across the region and disruption of commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

This has contributed to domestic economic pressures, raising fuel costs and creating public unrest.

The administration faces the challenge of ending the war without appearing to have achieved too little, while balancing US strategic goals and regional alliances.

Trump has indicated that he wants a tangible agreement to prevent Iran from advancing its nuclear program while avoiding an open-ended conflict.

As the conflict continues, the US President is exploring options to declare victory, halt the fighting, and stabilise economic conditions before political damage intensifies ahead of the midterm elections.