US Military Victory Over Iran Unlikely, Says New York Times
Administration relying on naval blockade and economic sanctions after airstrikes fail to achieve goals
Quick Look
The prospect of a US military victory over Iran is unlikely as airstrikes fail, leading the Trump administration to rely on a naval blockade and economic sanctions instead of a swift campaign.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
US airstrikes have failed to accomplish Washington's goals against Iran, prompting a reliance on naval blockades and economic sanctions.
NEW YORK, August 31. /TASS/. The prospect of a US military victory over Iran appears unlikely, writes The New York Times.
According to the newspaper, airstrikes have not helped Washington accomplish its goals. Now, the administration of US President Donald Trump is relying on a naval blockade and economic sanctions. "There are early signs of an uptick in the number of ships and oil exports transiting the strait [of Hormuz]. Despite the modest gains, US military leaders are no longer talking about a swift victory. Instead, they are describing a campaign that would put pressure on Iran for months or longer," the article author believes.
The US military likely could reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which was open before the war started. "It is a doable task," Thomas G. Mahnken, who served as a senior Pentagon official under President George W. Bush, told the newspaper. "But it would take some effort on the ground, just because the Iranians have spent decades building and fortifying positions." However, the newspaper writes, the Americans and Trump are unlikely to be willing to bear the cost of such an operation "in blood and treasure."
What to Watch
AI outlook β possibilities, not facts
US will maintain a campaign of pressure on Iran for months or longer.
Likely Β· Within months
Open Questions
- How long will the economic pressure campaign last?
- Will shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz fully normalize?
