A Truth Social post from 2020 by Donald Trump has resurfaced and gone viral following a new agreement between the U.S. and Iran [1].

The resurgence of the post highlights a deepening divide over the terms of the pact. Critics argue the deal provides Tehran with significant concessions and portrays the United States as surrendering its strategic position [1], [3].

In the original post from 2020 [1], Trump wrote, "Just sit back and relax. It will all work out well in the end — It always does!"

The timing of the post's return to public attention coincides with reports from June 2024 [2]. This period saw a complex mix of diplomatic efforts and military tension. While the viral post suggests a posture of confidence or stepping back, other reports indicate that U.S. and Israeli jets struck Iranian vessels hours after Trump hinted at negotiations [2].

Trump has addressed the nature of the diplomatic process in separate statements. "We don't want to rush into a deal, but the talks are constructive," Trump said [2].

Despite the constructive nature of the talks, Trump has remained critical of the press coverage surrounding the negotiations. He suggested that the media's reaction to the geopolitical shift is skewed, stating, "If Iran surrenders, the media will sing its praises," Trump said [3].

The viral nature of the 2020 post has been used by different factions to frame the narrative of the current agreement. Some view the "sit back and relax" sentiment as a reassurance of U.S. strength, while others use it to suggest a lack of vigilance in the face of Iranian gains [1].

“"Just sit back and relax. It will all work out well in the end — It always does!"”

The resurfacing of a years-old social media post during a period of active diplomatic negotiation demonstrates how digital archives are used to challenge the current framing of foreign policy. By juxtaposing a 2020 message of reassurance with a deal that critics call a surrender, opposing political factions are attempting to define whether the U.S. is maintaining its leverage or conceding to Tehran.