US President Donald Trump convened a National Security Council meeting at the White House on May 22 to discuss rising tensions with Iran and possible responses if negotiations fail, attended by Vice President Pence, Defense Secretary Hegseth, CIA Director Ratcliffe, and Chief of Staff Wiles [1, 2, 3]. Trump decided to remain in Washington over the weekend instead of traveling to his New Jersey golf resort or attending his son Donald Trump Jr.'s wedding in the Bahamas on May 24-25 [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. On Truth Social, Trump said staying in Washington during this critical time was crucial [1, 5].
Trump has expressed growing frustration with stalled Iran diplomacy and is considering a final large-scale military strike if talks collapse, though no definitive strike order has been issued [1, 2, 3, 4]. US military and intelligence personnel canceled weekend leave plans amid the heightened alert [2, 3, 4]. Pakistani and Qatari envoys visited Tehran on May 22-23 to mediate between Washington and Iran [1, 2, 3]. Iranian officials stated they have rebuilt military strength during the ceasefire and warned any US attack would face devastating retaliation [2]. Iranian airspace over western routes was closed May 22-25, an indicator of heightened readiness [6, 7].
The so-called "Pentagon Pizza Index" rose sharply as five pizza restaurants near the Pentagon saw sales increase by 167% to 227% on the evening of May 22, a signal often linked to military tensions [6, 7]. Trump acknowledged to reporters that the timing was "not good" for attending his son's wedding due to the Iran situation, but wished the couple happiness despite expecting criticism for either choice [8, 5]. Donald Trump Jr. planned to marry Bettina Anderson on a private island in the Bahamas [8].
Trump has publicly opposed Iran obtaining nuclear weapons and retaining enriched uranium, calling it non-negotiable for US security [4]. US and Iranian officials remain divided on nuclear and Strait of Hormuz issues. Some US officials expressed cautious optimism that a ceasefire agreement might arrive soon, while others noted slow negotiation progress [1, 2, 3]. Senate Armed Services Chairman Roger Wicker urged continued US military pressure to degrade Iran’s capabilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz [1].
Trump’s presidential term is set to end in January 2029; Donald Trump Jr. has hinted at future presidential ambitions [8]. The immediate focus remains on Iran diplomacy, with cautious monitoring and contingency planning continuing through the weekend of May 24-25.
