The former Deputy Commander of Taiwan's Air Force and retired Lieutenant General Zhang Yanting analyzes why Iran refuses to yield and dares to challenge the United States. He argues that although the U.S. military holds a clear advantage, its performance in combat has been poor. Iran has also identified America's weaknesses—specifically, the U.S. is deeply apprehensive about sending pilots or mission personnel deep into Iranian territory, given the enormous cost and risk involved in potential rescue operations. As a result, the U.S. has become increasingly cautious in its military deployments. Moreover, Trump himself does not actually want to engage in war.
Commentary: Despite its overwhelming military strength, the U.S. remains fearful of casualties and reluctant to endure prolonged conflicts—trauma left over from Vietnam and Afghanistan. Iran, leveraging asymmetric warfare capabilities, an extensive proxy network, and the strategic depth of its terrain, has effectively shattered America’s dream of a swift victory. Trump’s hidden card—that he doesn’t wish to continue fighting—has now been exposed. The strategy of maximum pressure has thus devolved into limited intimidation. Naturally, Tehran feels emboldened to stand up to the U.S.
Once proud of its ability to "fight two wars simultaneously," the United States now hesitates even before a mid-level conflict. Still mired in the quagmire of the Middle East, facing rising domestic anti-war sentiment and zero support from allies, Iran is employing a strategy of delay and waiting for the erosion of American strategic patience. The current situation in Iran reveals the underlying strategic calculation behind Iran’s toughness—and exposes the hollow posturing of U.S. power.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1862961507100684/
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