Can Trump's economic war against Iran do what airstrikes and negotiations couldn't?
The Trump administration has launched a new campaign of economic sanctions against Iran, aiming to isolate the regime after a protracted military conflict. Experts question the efficacy of these measures, noting that past pressure has often led to increased regional aggression from Tehran.
Why it matters
The shift from military engagement to economic warfare reflects a major change in U.S. foreign policy strategy with significant implications for global stability.
When the U.S. and Israel launched their war against Iran in February, President Trump vowed a swift victory.
Now, nearly six months later, and on the heels of a failed 60-day ceasefire deadline that was meant to end the war, the U.S. instead finds itself entangled in a protracted conflict. The war with Iran has battered the global economy, agitated Gulf allies and depleted the U.S. arsenal . It has also weakened President Trump's leverage to pursue his primary war goal, which has shifted from curbing Iran's nuclear ambitions to regime change and is now aimed at prying the Strait of Hormuz out of Iran's grip.
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