US-Iran War: Trump and Netanyahu Navigate an Indefinite Conflict
The war between the United States and Iran, initiated with a joint strike that killed Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28, 2026, continues with an uncertain timeline. While initial signals from the US administration suggested a swift resolution, conflicting statements and Israel’s determination to continue fighting have created a complex and potentially prolonged conflict. The situation is further complicated by the escalating regional tensions, including drone and missile barrages targeting US allies in the Gulf and disruptions to global shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
Conflicting Signals and Shifting Timelines
US President Donald Trump initially indicated the war “will soon be over,” but simultaneously threatened further action against Iran 1. This mixed messaging has fueled uncertainty among allies, and observers. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the US “will not back down until the enemy is completely and decisively defeated” and will proceed “on our timetable” 1.
Though, two Israeli officials have reportedly conveyed to Reuters that they do not anticipate an immediate order from Trump to end the war. Despite this, they acknowledge the possibility that the conflict may not lead to the collapse of Iran’s clerical regime 2.
Israel’s Resolve and US-Israel Coordination
Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz has declared that Israel will continue the war against Iran “indefinitely.” This stance underscores Israel’s commitment to dismantling perceived threats from Iran, a position consistently supported by Trump 3.
Trump has emphasized a collaborative approach with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that any decision regarding the war’s conclusion will be “mutual” 3. He asserted that Iran posed an existential threat to Israel and credited their joint efforts with “destroying a country that wanted to destroy Israel” 3. While Trump indicated he would have the final say, he acknowledged Netanyahu’s input would be considered.
Regional and Global Impacts
The conflict has triggered widespread disruption and instability across the Middle East and beyond. European and Middle Eastern governments have been forced to evacuate citizens from the escalating combat zone 2. Soaring energy prices are impacting fragile economies, and domestic political unrest is growing 2.
US allies in the Gulf have faced drone and missile attacks, disrupting daily life and impacting global aviation 2. Iran has also effectively halted cargo traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, raising global energy concerns 1.
A “Tear-It-Down” Approach to Geopolitics
The current conflict reflects a broader pattern of the Trump administration’s foreign policy, characterized by a disregard for traditional alliances and diplomatic norms 2. The lack of coordination with allies, exemplified by the blindsiding of Italy’s defense minister during the war’s onset, highlights this approach 2. This “tear-it-down” politics has pulled the world deeper into a state of geopolitical disarray.