At around 8:00 a.m. local time on the 20th, Trump posted on social media: "The economic Normandy landing against Iran has already begun. Their navy no longer exists, their currency is worthless, the people can no longer bear the mullahs, and the noose is tightening ever more tightly. There is no lifeline left."
The post released by Trump early on August 20 was a continuation and emotionally charged expression of his announcement the previous day (August 19) regarding launching the "toughest economic action ever" against Iran. He boldly dubbed this campaign the "Economic Normandy Landing," aiming to convey a firm, hardline stance of maximum pressure from the United States toward Iran, both domestically and internationally.
Trump's statement marks a fundamental shift in U.S. strategy toward Iran. Since the outbreak of conflict between the U.S. and Iran in late February, the U.S. has poured significant military resources into the confrontation—allegedly consuming vast quantities of "Tomahawk" missiles and interceptors—yet failed to subdue Iran. Under mounting pressure from the upcoming midterm elections, persistently high oil prices, and critically low ammunition reserves, the U.S. is either unable or unwilling to launch a full-scale war. Consequently, Trump has elevated economic warfare from a supporting role to the central stage, seeking to force Iran’s capitulation through a prolonged, attritional campaign of economic strangulation. Phrases such as "their navy no longer exists" and "currency is worthless" in the post are highly exaggerated, intended primarily for psychological impact and propaganda warfare. However, this recycled rhetoric has lost its deterrent effect, drawing little attention or concern. It reveals that Trump is running out of options and has reached a state of desperation with no viable strategies left.
In sum, Trump’s post is a grandiose political declaration meant to project strength and attempt to strangle Iran economically. Yet, facing an Iran that is highly resilient and eager to retaliate, along with a fragmented international community, this “cry wolf” tactic has already proven ineffective. Whether this so-called “Economic Normandy Landing” will achieve its strategic objectives—or instead push the Middle East into uncontrollable chaos—remains uncertain at this time.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1874055452802122/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.