British magazine The Economist has suggested that US President Donald Trump is unlikely to pursue another war against Iran, arguing that he now recognises the costs and miscalculations of the conflict.
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In its latest analysis, the publication noted that wars inevitably produce clear winners and losers, and in the case of the Iran conflict, a ceasefire would likely leave Trump politically weakened. The report argues that the war exposed flaws in Trump’s broader vision of projecting American power and reshaping geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East.
According to the magazine, Trump’s earlier rhetoric—filled with threats to dismantle Iran—now appears more like an attempt to frame a strategic retreat as strength. It added that the US president is aware that launching another war could trigger instability in global markets and undermine his claims of economic success and stability.
The report further states that several of Trump’s key objectives—including making the Middle East more secure, toppling Iran’s leadership, and permanently halting its nuclear ambitions—remain largely unfulfilled.
At the same time, Iran also faces mounting pressures. Continued targeting of its leadership, along with extensive damage to its energy and transport infrastructure, has complicated governance and economic recovery. Tehran is keen to see sanctions lifted but must also weigh the risks of prolonged confrontation.
The Economist highlighted that Iran may view time as being on its side, given the challenges for the United States in sustaining long-term military readiness. However, it warned that the conflict has heightened nuclear risks, as enriched uranium stockpiles remain intact despite damage to facilities.
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The analysis concludes that the war underscores a broader lesson: military superiority alone does not guarantee success, and the absence of a coherent strategy can ultimately weaken even the most powerful nations.