Potential Conflict with Iran: Another Prolonged Engagement?

America’s persistent military efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan have often been described as “forever wars.” These campaigns were lengthy and expensive but did not achieve substantial goals. Former President Donald Trump was elected with promises to avoid such conflicts. Nevertheless, he may have found himself caught in another prolonged engagement. Today, journalist Steven Erlanger examines whether the situation with Iran mirrors the past conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Another American “forever war”?

No leader begins a conflict expecting it to last indefinitely. However, American presidents have often entered into battles that appear never-ending. These conflicts seem to carry on until a future leader decides that the costs and public disapproval outweigh potential gains. They then seek a form of victory before withdrawing. Regarding Iran, Trump might have fallen into this repetitive pattern.

His campaign focused on ending wars, not initiating them, and he pledged to avoid perpetual conflicts, especially in the Middle East.