The article examines why the United States struggled to end its nearly two-decade war in Afghanistan and argues that similar pressures may shape its newer conflict with Iran. Five years after the chaotic conclusion of the Afghan war, the source says fears that withdrawal would turn Afghanistan into a terrorist haven or launchpad for attacks on the United States have not materialized. It describes President Donald Trump as giving mixed signals on whether to leave the Iran conflict or continue it.

After Osama bin Laden was killed in May 2011 and al-Qaeda had been weakened, withdrawal was seen as a major opportunity. Yet US leaders and the Pentagon cited concerns about American credibility, obligations to Afghan partners and the meaning of sacrifices by dead and wounded troops. Analyst Andrew R. Hoehn described many recent US wars as policing an empire rather than existential struggles.

Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to US attacks, and General Dan Caine said bombs and missiles alone might not defeat Iran or fully reopen the waterway. The administration is pursuing a naval blockade of Iranian exports and sanctions, while officials now discuss pressure lasting months or longer. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the blockade could continue indefinitely.