economist.com

Source: economist.com

The US, under Trump, launched massive strikes on Iran in late February 2026 after threats over protests and nuclear fears, aiming to smash its military and proxies. Even with tactical wins like sinking over 50 Iranian vessels, the war risks sapping American power for years by tying down forces and fracturing alliances. It matters because this could reshape Middle East security, tilt balances toward China, and fail to stop Iran's nuclear push.