17 days into war, Donald Trump yet to achieve regime change; experts say Iran still has upper hand

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): It has been 17 days since the conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran began, but no clear outcome has emerged so far. Reports suggest that US President Donald Trump may soon claim victory over Iran. However, the final result largely depends on Iran’s next course of action.

According to reports, if Iran continues the conflict, does not halt attacks on shipping routes and keeps responding to US and Israeli strikes, the war is unlikely to end anytime soon. It is claimed that a significant portion of Iran’s naval capabilities has been damaged and several of its missiles have been destroyed. There are also reports of casualties among Iran’s senior military leadership.

Despite this, Trump’s key political objective—regime change in Iran—has not been achieved. He has repeatedly spoken about changing Iran’s leadership, but no such development has taken place so far. On the other hand, Iran continues to maintain control over the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, leading to sharp fluctuations in the global oil market. Experts believe Iran still has the capability to shift the balance of the conflict.

Impact of war visible in the US

The effects of the war are now being felt within the United States as well. Fuel prices have reportedly risen by nearly 25 percent following the attacks. Fertilizer costs for farmers have increased, and reports indicate that 13 American soldiers have lost their lives so far.

The situation is creating political challenges for Trump. Some leaders within his own party have started advising him to end the conflict and focus on the economy. With midterm elections approaching in the United States this year, the issue has become even more politically sensitive.