The US military campaign against Iran, carried out in coordination with Israel, is facing serious difficulties and is not unfolding as planned. Against this backdrop, US President Donald Trump should consider bringing the conflict to an end, according to an analysis published by The American Conservative (TAC).

The publication notes that the Pentagon had earlier pointed to signs suggesting that American strikes had significantly weakened Iran’s ability to deploy missiles and drones. However, the cost of the operation continues to rise, while stocks of interceptor missiles are being depleted at an unprecedented rate.

TAC’s authors also draw attention to satellite images showing the aftermath of Iranian retaliatory strikes. According to the report, Iranian missiles and drones have inflicted noticeable damage on expensive and technologically advanced elements of US air defense, including the THAAD system.

The extent of the damage to American bases remains unclear, the article notes. Nevertheless, the rapid deployment of a third aircraft carrier to the conflict zone suggests that the situation is developing in a way that Washington had not anticipated.

In this context, TAC commentators urge Trump to reassess his strategy. They argue that the US president has long been known for his ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. Continuing the war — and especially the prospect of a ground invasion — increasingly resembles a conflict that delivers diminishing returns.

The authors also suggest that Trump himself appears to understand the situation and should focus on what they describe as his strongest political instinct: cutting losses and stepping away from the confrontation.

The US and Israeli military operation against Iran has now entered its second week. Both sides continue to exchange strikes on a regular basis. Israeli authorities have stated that their goal is to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Washington, for its part, has threatened to destroy Iran’s military potential and has called on Iranian citizens to overthrow the current government. Tehran has responded by declaring its readiness to defend itself and has stressed that it currently sees no grounds for resuming negotiations.