How could US-Iran conflict end? Three experts give their views

Key Points:

• The conflict between the US and Iran shows no immediate signs of resolution, with ongoing military strikes and escalating rhetoric despite recent US efforts to impose a broad economic blockade aimed at forcing Iran to negotiate.
• The US strategy appears to involve maintaining a blockade and periodic military actions to disrupt Iran's ability to threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, though the administration's long-term political objectives remain unclear and fluid.
• Iran is expected to continue proportional responses to US attacks without capitulating, as economic sanctions have yet to significantly alter Tehran's stance, partly due to continued trade relations with countries like China and Russia.
• A potential diplomatic solution could stem from revisiting the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) from June, which might weaken hardliners in Iran and prevent nuclear weapon development, but this requires sustained US negotiation efforts and strategic patience.
• Achieving lasting change in Iran through economic engagement faces challenges due to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' deep economic influence, yet over time, such engagement could encourage political and social reforms within the Islamic regime.