Trump's Iran War: Five Critical Missteps That Reshaped the Conflict

• Washington underestimated Iran's aggressive retaliation, expecting caution but facing missile attacks and proxy activation.
• Misjudged global oil market reaction, leading to surging prices and economic pressure instead of temporary disruption.
• Overlooked Iran's ability to threaten the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping route, causing market volatility.
• Overestimated the potential for regime change, as Iran's leadership proved resilient and external pressure unified the nation.
• Lacked a clear exit strategy, with shifting goals and no plan for ending the conflict, leading to prolonged regional crisis.