Trump’s evolving stance on Iran ‘unconditional surrender’

Published March 12, 2026 3:49pm ET



President Donald Trump has stated repeatedly that Operation Epic Fury will only cease when Iran presents an “unconditional surrender.” What that actually means is vague at best.

The president — who previously said “unconditional surrender” could be either an explicit capitulation by the Iranian regime or “when they can’t fight any longer because they don’t have anyone or anything to fight with” — now seems to indicate that the latter option is already becoming a reality.

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.