Trump Heads to Memphis, Iran Deadline Looms

President Trump to highlight Memphis crime task force as Iran ultimatum expires

Mar. 22, 2026 at 4:08pm

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President Donald Trump is traveling to Memphis, Tennessee, this week to highlight the work of the Memphis Safe Task Force, a multi-agency law enforcement initiative that has led to over 7,200 arrests and the seizure of nearly 1,200 illegal firearms since September. Meanwhile, a 48-hour deadline Trump issued to Iran over the Strait of Hormuz is set to expire on Monday evening, raising concerns about potential military strikes.

Why it matters

Trump's visit to Memphis comes amid concerns from local Congressman Steve Cohen about the impact the law enforcement surge could have on the city's tourism industry, as crime was already declining before the task force was established. The Iran situation also carries major geopolitical and economic implications, as the Strait of Hormuz is a critical global oil chokepoint.

The details

In Memphis, Trump will spotlight the work of the Memphis Safe Task Force, a federal-led initiative involving law enforcement and the Tennessee National Guard. The White House says the task force has led to over 7,200 arrests and the seizure of nearly 1,200 illegal firearms since September. However, Congressman Cohen has expressed concerns that the surge could negatively impact the city's tourism. Regarding Iran, Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum on Saturday, threatening major strikes on the country's power plants if Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world's oil flows. Tehran has threatened retaliatory strikes of their own.

  • President Trump's 48-hour deadline to Iran expires on Monday evening.
  • Trump is traveling to Memphis on Monday to highlight the Memphis Safe Task Force.

The players

President Donald Trump

The current President of the United States.

Rep. Steve Cohen

A Democratic Congressman representing Memphis, Tennessee, who has expressed concerns about the impact of the law enforcement surge on the city's tourism industry.

Tehran

The capital and largest city of Iran, which has threatened retaliatory strikes in response to Trump's ultimatum.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.