Another Iraq scenario? Trump's 'quick war' hits unexpected trouble
US President Donald Trump (photo: Getty Images)
A US-Israeli military operation against Iran risks turning into a prolonged regional war despite the elimination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The White House is now facing economic pressure and a lack of a clear strategy to end the campaign, Reuters reports.
Risk of prolonged war
According to the agency, experts say the Epic Fury operation risks turning into an open-ended conflict without a clearly defined final objective.
Unlike previous swift operations ordered by US President Donald Trump, the campaign against Iran is showing signs of becoming a long-term confrontation that could threaten global stability.
"Iran is a messy and potentially protracted military campaign. Trump is risking the global economy, regional stability and his own Republican Party's performance in the US midterm elections," said Laura Blumenfeld of the Johns Hopkins School for Advanced International Studies in Washington.
Economic pressure, oil threat
One of the most pressing issues is the effective halt of tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping lane that carries about one-fifth of the world's oil supply. The disruption has already pushed fuel prices higher, a critical issue for American voters.
Despite White House statements that "the Iranian regime is being absolutely crushed," military analysts point to a lack of strategic planning.
"From a political, strategic and diplomatic standpoint, it seems not to have been thought all the way through," said retired US Army Lieutenant General Ben Hodges, assessing the military tactics.
Regional consequences
Experts say the situation is further complicated by attacks carried out by Iranian proxy groups. In particular, the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah has intensified fighting against Israel, expanding the geography of the conflict.
At the same time, tensions are rising inside the United States over the risk of possible terrorist attacks.
"I guess… Like I said, some people will die," Trump said bluntly.
US military presence in region
Earlier, Donald Trump announced Iran would be "hit very hard," promising the complete destruction of facilities that pose a threat. The statement was issued in response to escalating tensions between the two countries.
In addition, the US president had shown interest in the idea of deploying nuclear weapons in the Middle East to deter aggression from Tehran.
Also, amid the conflict, the US is preparing to deploy a third nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to strengthen its military presence in the region and secure naval superiority.
