Editorial
More than two decades after the 2003 invasion of Iraq, the United States has once again become deeply involved in a major Middle Eastern conflict—this time alongside Israel against Iran. As the war enters its second week, the scale of the attacks has grown, but one question continues to dominate the debate: what exactly does Washington want to achieve?
Statements from US President Donald Trump have often appeared inconsistent. At different times, the administration has suggested goals ranging from weakening Iran’s military power to encouraging political change inside the country. Yet there has been no clear explanation of how the war is expected to end.
Early strikes targeted senior Iranian leadership, including the killing of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Many analysts believe this was intended to destabilize the Iranian political system and trigger internal collapse. However, that outcome has not materialized. Instead, Iran quickly named a successor, Mojtaba Khamenei, which appears to have reinforced unity within the country’s leadership.
Another stated objective has been the destruction of Iran’s military capabilities, particularly its missile program and naval assets. While American and Israeli forces have damaged several strategic targets, experts warn that military strikes alone cannot reshape a country’s political system or create a new leadership structure.
Israel’s broader goal may also be influencing the direction of the conflict. Many observers believe Israel views the war as part of a wider effort to reshape regional power dynamics and weaken rivals such as Iran.
Despite the intensity of the fighting, the most realistic outcome may not be total victory or regime change. Instead, the conflict could eventually end with a negotiated settlement that allows Washington to claim strategic success while avoiding the risks of a prolonged regional war.
