President Trump has pivoted to an economic pressure campaign dubbed “Operation Economic Fury” as his primary exit strategy, de-emphasizing direct military action and diplomacy in favor of a “wait-and-see” approach. Described by some aides as a “strategy of nothing,” this plan relies on tightened sanctions and a U.S. naval blockade to inflict sufficient financial pain on Iran to force negotiations without further U.S. casualties.
The administration hopes this slow squeeze will collapse Iran’s economy, allowing Trump to declare victory and lower energy prices before the November midterm elections. My friend Scott K. believes that this is what will cause Iran to surrender and concede to Trump’s demands.
Significant obstacles remain, as Iranian officials have stated they are prepared to prolong the war until Trump leaves office and continue to demand war reparations and control over shipping fees in the Strait of Hormuz. While Trump claims the U.S. has “total control” over the Strait and might “keep it,” military strikes have failed to produce a quick resolution, and weapon stockpiles are dwindling. Critics argue the President lacks the patience for a long-term economic strategy and faces a dilemma where neither escalation nor concession offers a clear path to peace. In three words, the war saga is “TRUMP IS SCREWED”.
The U.S. has no strategy on how to get out of the war. It is now turning out to be a forever war.