A report by The Economist claims that US President Donald Trump is unlikely to pursue another war against Iran, having concluded that launching the conflict in the first place was a mistake.

According to the publication, every war produces a loser, and if current tensions with Iran end in a ceasefire, Trump himself could emerge as the biggest political casualty.

The report argues that the conflict has exposed weaknesses in Trump’s vision for a new model of projecting American power. It adds that his previously aggressive rhetoric about destroying Iran now appears aimed at masking a strategic retreat.

Trump is also said to recognise that a renewed war would destabilise global markets and undermine his claims of ushering in a “golden era.”

The report notes that Washington’s key objectives — securing the Middle East, toppling Iran’s leadership, and permanently halting its nuclear ambitions — have largely not been achieved.

On the other side, Iran also faces pressure to de-escalate. Its leadership remains under threat, while damage to energy and transport infrastructure has made governance increasingly difficult. Tehran is also seeking sanctions relief.

However, the magazine notes that Iran believes time is on its side, as the United States cannot indefinitely sustain military readiness.

Iran’s naval and air capabilities remain limited, and its stockpile of missiles and drones has been significantly depleted, compounded by a weak economy strained by years of US and Israeli strikes.

The report warns that the conflict could heighten nuclear risks. Despite damage to its facilities, Iran retains enough enriched uranium to potentially produce multiple weapons, raising fears of future proliferation.

It also highlights growing negative sentiment within the US towards Israel, which could weaken Washington’s broader position.

Concluding, the report says the war underscores that military strength alone is insufficient.

While US superiority was evident, Iran managed to wage an asymmetric conflict, and the absence of a clear strategy ultimately undermined American power.