Trump’s Strategy in Iran Draws Mixed Results

Since April, President Trump has pushed Iran to accept his peace deal terms through threats and military actions. These efforts followed his announced cease-fire with Iran. While a potential deal may soon emerge, it has not shifted Iran’s nuclear stance.

The deal might reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This vital route for oil and gas has been blockaded by Iran since U.S.-Israeli attacks started in February. Yet, other critical decisions may be postponed.

The U.S. aimed to open the strait by stopping the war in April, hoping free passage would lower gas prices and reduce domestic anger over the conflict. However, Iran still controls the strait despite U.S. attempts to change this.

On April 13, the U.S. began a naval blockade on Iranian ports. This action redirected over 100 ships, maintaining pressure on Iran. The following month, President Trump launched “Project Freedom” to secure ships trapped by the blockade, allowing two ships to exit. This initiative was suspended soon after.

Trump’s appeals for European support in policing the strait yielded no results. Although he threatened further attacks on Iran, these threats were not executed.

The war in Iran is unpopular domestically, escalating oil prices and straining U.S. allies in the Arab world. Iranian retaliatory attacks have affected these allies significantly.

In late April, as a deadline for Iran to accept U.S. terms loomed, Trump extended the cease-fire, pursuing continuous discussions. His threats persisted on Truth Social, with statements asserting pressure on Iran.

Last week, Trump delayed an unplanned offensive against Iran, citing requests from Gulf Arab leaders amidst ongoing negotiations.

Analysts suggest Iran’s leadership feels strengthened by the war, believing they resisted efforts to overthrow the Islamic Republic. They perceive advantage in time, partly by influencing global energy prices.

Aaron Boxerman, a Times reporter, covers events in Israel and Gaza from Jerusalem.