Middle East
Why 'D-Day' was destined to be a dud
Trump's new sanctions won't alter the complex political dance between Iran's factions. It will, however, help to coalesce them around one goal: regime survival.
September 05, 2026
Trump's new sanctions won't alter the complex political dance between Iran's factions. It will, however, help to coalesce them around one goal: regime survival.
It wouldn't be unprecedented, and Gulf countries are already seeking out alternatives to the strait, which means its importance will eventually diminish
As hopes for a peace deal with the US fade, Tehran appears to be preparing to fight through the end of Trump's presidency
Oman and Iran appear close to a temporary arrangement to reopen the Strait — which Washington should welcome if it keeps traffic open and free
The US risks depleting its emergency petroleum supplies even as it escalates with Iran
The war in Iran is pushing smaller states to diversify their great power partnerships — if Washington will let them
