Trump Only Has Bad Options Left in Iran, Sullivan Says

Summary

Jake Sullivan, former US national security advisor, argues President Trump has put the US in a strategic cul-de-sac with Iran and faces two bad options: continue a costly war or eventually accept a very bad deal. He says Iran is adding demands each week and that the Strait of Hormuz is largely closed, keeping geopolitical and global economic risks elevated. Sullivan expects Washington may ultimately need to offer frozen assets, sanctions relief, and possibly a large reconstruction fund for Iran.

• Sullivan says Trump's Iran war has put the US in a strategic cul-de-sac.
• He sees two bad options: continue the conflict or cut a very bad deal.
• Iran is adding demands each week over reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
• Sullivan says the strait is largely closed right now despite Trump's claims.
• Reopening may require US concessions: frozen assets, sanctions relief, and a reconstruction fund.
• The war carries costs for the global economy and risks further escalation.
• Sullivan says Iran's aggressive response was predictable after US regime-change aims.