war
Trump's Middle East war ends in an ambiguous victory
After weeks of attacks and threats, a fragile ceasefire persists while US and Iran negotiate without a formal deal and the US simultaneously prepares coercive measures such as a possible blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
Apr 12th 2026 · United States
Insights
- A fragile ceasefire holds despite violations and no formal agreement.
- The United States and Iran held direct talks lasting more than 20 hours without closing a deal.
- President Trump ordered preparations to block the Strait of Hormuz while negotiations continued.
- Vice President J. D. Vance led negotiations with Tehran and has gained political capital among some Republicans.
- Iran emerges symbolically stronger after resisting 40 days of pressure.
- Gulf states see the US security umbrella as less reliable while China positions itself as a regional stabilizer.
- Markets view the continuation of the ceasefire as essential to avoid major economic disruption.
Sources
- Donald Trump is the war’s biggest loser www.hindustantimes.com
- Republicans wanted Trump to sell the economy. He’s been talking war instead. www.politico.com
- La guerra de Trump y su aún más extraña victoria www.abc.es
- Trump declares victory, but the Iran war is a failure on all fronts www.independent.co.uk
- Opinion | Trump’s Cease-Fire Isn’t a Victory for the U.S. www.wsj.com