Why is Trump unable to end the war with Iran despite America's 'hard-power' military strength?

Since US President Donald Trump took office, he has claimed to stop wars between several countries, but now that he himself has clashed with Iran, he sees no way out. Now he is facing constant questions. He has become so frustrated that he has resorted to abusive language.

Superficially, the US has more than three times the population of Iran and possesses the world's most powerful military and economy. In terms of power balance, it appears to be far superior. Add to this the Israeli military and its all-pervasive intelligence machinery, and the contest seems far from even.

Iran Outsmarting the US

Nevertheless, Iran has outsmarted the US and achieved considerable success in this war. According to a CNN report, some analysts believe it has gained a strategic advantage.

One month later, the war has now become a "race for advantage." Trump may have the upper hand, but achieving a clear victory would likely require political and economic losses beyond his reach.

While Iran cannot defeat the United States and Israel, it has made its biggest move by closing the Strait of Hormuz. Thus, it has held the global economy hostage and created political difficulties for the United States.

US Strategic Weakness Exposed

White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt described Iran's agreement to allow 20 more tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz in the coming days as a victory for the president's diplomacy.

Yet, this seems somewhat odd because, as a major power, the United States should not be in a position to bargain for concessions.

A harsh reality for Trump is that while the United States possesses the military strength to open the Strait of Hormuz, sending the US Navy through the Strait would give Iran a propaganda victory. Especially if they attack or even sink an American ship.

He will likely have to deploy ground troops to push back the Iranian forces. This will increase the risk of American soldiers being killed in combat, further damaging his already fragile political standing.

Trump is speaking two different languages

Trump is also claiming that meaningful diplomacy is underway behind the scenes with Iran, even though Iran denies any direct talks are taking place. He is also threatening violence to force Tehran to the negotiating table.

According to a CNN report, some analysts are convinced that Trump's patience will run out and he will order American troops to occupy Kharg Island or other islands in the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump's patience is running out

Trump had previously warned that if Iran did not reach a deal, he would use America's military advantage as a weapon to completely destroy all of Iran's power plants, oil fields, and Kharg Island.

The US military could certainly do this. However, Iran is certain to retaliate by attacking similar targets located on the soil of US allies in the Gulf region. This would cause significant turmoil in global markets.