Republican Senator Urges Trump to Maintain Military Pressure on Iran

Sen. Roger Wicker, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued a public warning Thursday against any agreement with Iran that he described as insufficient. "We are at a moment that will define President Trump’s legacy," Wicker said in a statement.

" Wicker called for U.S. forces to complete the destruction of Iran’s conventional military capabilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Position Secretary of State Marco

Rubio stated Thursday that talks with Iran had produced "some progress" but remained incomplete. "There's been some progress," Rubio said. "I wouldn't exaggerate it. I wouldn't diminish it. We're not there yet. " Rubio noted that unresolved issues include Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium and any future enrichment rights.

A White House official said Iran would not be permitted a nuclear weapon and that President Trump would only accept a deal favorable to the United States.

Trump recently postponed a planned military strike, stating he would wait several days to see if diplomacy could avert further conflict. "If I can save war by waiting a couple of days, if I can save people being killed by waiting a couple of days, I think it's a great thing to do," Trump said.

Wicker’s remarks came hours after Rubio’s comments and highlighted divisions within Republican circles over whether to continue military operations or pursue negotiations. " — Sen. Roger Wicker, May 22, 2026 (Fox News) >"Further pursuit of an agreement with Iran's Islamist regime risks a perception of weakness.

" — Sen.