As the U.S.-Iran conflict continues to take its toll, the two nations are facing starkly different pressures. Middle East expert Paul Salem pointed out that the Iranian regime can withstand the economic damage caused by prolonged conflict, while U.S. President Trump is paying a heavy political price for it.
Salem explained that Iran's political system is inherently built on enduring hardship, making it seemingly indifferent to the suffering endured by its people during the conflict. In contrast, as an electoral democracy, the United States sees public suffering and economic costs ultimately translate into political consequences that directly rebound on those in power.
This political cost is already becoming evident within the United States. Since the closure of the critical Strait of Hormuz, fuel prices have surged—rising 34% since the war began in late February—and the average price now stands near $4.09 per gallon. According to the latest CNN poll, 67% of Americans believe Trump’s decision to go to war with Iran has harmed U.S. interests, while another 65% think his policies have further worsened the country’s economic situation.
Meanwhile, ordinary Iranians are also suffering significant impacts. Since the outbreak of war, Iran has lost approximately 230 million cubic meters of natural gas production capacity daily. In response, Iranian officials are urging the public to reduce electricity usage and warning of potential nationwide power outages.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1872559524804681/
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