Atlantic Council CEO Fred Kempe on U.S.-Iran conflict: 'Neither side has an end game here'

Summary

Fred Kempe discusses the U.S.-Iran conflict, explaining that President Trump is bombing Iran to force acceptance of a deal focused on the Strait of Hormuz. He argues neither side has an end game, as Iran is weakened but still on the playing field, and military strikes alone cannot bring down the regime. The situation remains a protracted battle of wills with no clear political solution.

• U.S. bombing campaign aims to degrade Iran's ability to disrupt Strait of Hormuz
• Neither side has a clear end game; both are in a battle of wills
• Iran's military, proxies, and nuclear capability are being eroded but regime persists
• U.S. military dominance does not guarantee the desired political outcome
• Regime change unlikely without boots on the ground, which is not structured or willing
• Negotiators frustrated by perceived IRGC spoiler role despite good deals offered
• Strait of Hormuz transit remains a persistent risk factor