Trump bets on restraint and economic pressure as Iran war drags on

Six months into the Iran conflict, the Trump administration is pursuing a restrained, economically focused strategy—avoiding broad strikes or a ground operation—while leaning on long‑range weapons and pressuring Tehran with sanctions. White House officials say the risk to Iran from inflation and shortages outweighs potential midterm political costs, but analysts warn there is no clear exit path and a protracted campaign could exhaust weapons stocks and raise prices. The war has already claimed 18 U.S. service members and left hundreds wounded, highlighting a ongoing debate between pressuring Iran and avoiding escalation, framed by a “low-key” approach led by Treasury and diplomacy rather than a major new military push.