Iran Sticks to Its Guns as Trump’s Threats Begin to Lose Power
Newsweek • • world
Key Points:
- Nearly three months into the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, Tehran remains defiant despite significant losses, maintaining strong domestic unity and firm demands for ending the conflict on its own terms.
- Iran has strategically controlled the Strait of Hormuz, attacked Gulf neighbors, and preserved its missile and drone capabilities, enduring severe economic hardship while facing intense internal repression.
- U.S. President Trump postponed a planned large-scale assault after Gulf Cooperation Council leaders appealed for negotiations, but Iran’s demands—including U.S. withdrawal and reparations—remain unchanged.
- Analysts highlight Tehran's resilience rooted in national identity and external support from Russia and China, contrasting with the Trump administration’s shifting war objectives and unclear endgame.
- Domestic opposition to the war is high in the U.S., with polling showing low support and declining approval for Trump, while Iran’s leadership appears motivated to endure the conflict longer due to higher political stakes.