Updated
According to a New York Times report, Vice President JD Vance, expressing skepticism about the trajectory of the US conflict with Iran, sought direct intelligence briefings from American generals rather than relying solely on public statements from the administration. The report describes 'sobering private assessments' delivered to Vance that reportedly diverged sharply from the more optimistic public rhetoric coming from President Trump. The disclosure suggests internal divisions or uncertainty within the US administration over the true state of the ongoing military confrontation with Iran, even as attacks continue in the Gulf region, including a reported strike on vessels near Oman's Khasab. The report underscores growing questions in Washington about the war's direction and the accuracy of official messaging.