The conflict between the U.S. and Iran is entering a standoff reminiscent of the Cold War. Financial sanctions, maritime interdictions, blockades, and "negotiations before negotiations" are all proceeding simultaneously, yet neither a ceasefire agreement nor the elimination of the risk of renewed hot war is visible in the short term. Multiple U.S. officials are concerned that the U.S. may become trapped in a frozen conflict characterized by "no war, no agreement." The U.S. military remains stationed in the Middle East for an extended period; the Strait of Hormuz stays closed; the U.S. continues to blockade Iranian ports and oil tankers; both sides wait for the other to yield first or initiate hostilities. Reports indicate that with the mid-term elections in November approaching, this situation is politically and economically disadvantageous for Trump, as energy prices may remain high over the coming months. Trump is vacillating between escalating military strikes and continuing reliance on "maximum pressure" sanctions. Some senior advisors advocate maintaining the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and expanding economic sanctions; Rubio claims that sanctions and pressure on Iran have already been "unprecedented" and can be further intensified. Meanwhile, hawkish figures outside the government—including Lindsey Graham, Jack Keane, and Mark Tison—urge Trump to take military action to break the deadlock. Iran has proposed opening the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the U.S. lifting its blockade on vessels entering and exiting Iran, but the White House has not yet made a decision. Trump is reportedly reluctant to accept such a deal, as it would delay his core objective: compelling Iran to make concessions on its nuclear program. The Treasury Department is also broadening sanctions against financial institutions, shipping companies, and others, aiming to cut off Iran's oil revenues. However, critics argue that sanctions alone may not compel Tehran to make strategic concessions.
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Original article: toutiao.com/article/1863781042608201/
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