PNN – A Hebrew media outlet reported that Trump is caught between two options: escalating tensions with catastrophic consequences or capitulating to Iran.
According to the report of Pakistan News Network; as the so-called 60-day deadline set during the Islamabad talks expires—and amidst numerous analyses in regional, international, and Zionist media regarding scenarios for the new phase and the limitations of U.S. options—the Hebrew newspaper Israel Hayom stated in a brief article: Reports regarding deliberations in Iran on an “aggressive approach”—meaning a return to escalating tensions—allow us to examine several key hypotheses concerning the mindset of Tehran’s leadership.
Iranians Will Not Yield
The Hebrew media outlet added: It is clear that the Iranians have no interest in an endless war; they refuse to yield to Trump’s demands and are determined to preserve the gains they have achieved in the conflict. Consequently, it appears they would prefer an escalation of tensions over capitulation.
Israel Hayom noted: While economic pressure does harm Iran, this is not a one-way street. Although U.S. sanctions and pressure damage the Iranian economy, Tehran can pass on some of the costs to the global economy by disrupting energy supplies and regional stability.
The report continues: Iran has not accepted—and will not accept—the status quo that allows the United States to easily reap the benefits of its “maximum pressure” campaign. Indeed, the Iranians are currently focusing more on taking the initiative and adopting an aggressive stance; the longer the economic siege drags on, the greater Iran’s incentive becomes to re-engage in conflict and generate new leverage.
The aforementioned Zionist media outlet added: Contrary to Trump’s hopes, there is no guarantee of a stable “transitional phase.” In reality, Washington cannot exert maximum pressure on Iran and refuse a deal without incurring any costs itself.
According to the report, in a scenario of prolonged escalation, freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz would also become a pipe dream. Consequently, there is no “quick-fix” solution regarding Iran. Increased pressure, attempts to tighten the land blockade, or another round of sanctions are not magic bullets.
Trump’s Two Options Regarding Iran: Bad and Worse
Israel Hayom noted that while sanctions and pressure may make the situation more difficult for Iran, they will not necessarily defeat it. The greater the pressure on Iran, the more likely it is to attempt to drive up the costs borne by its adversaries—and, in this instance, by the global economy as well.
The Zionist media outlet stated: It appears the US administration still struggles to grasp the mindset of the Iranian regime and fails to realize that the regime is capable of bargaining, making tactical retreats, and even altering its policies. Moreover, capitulating under pressure runs counter to Iran’s fundamental principles.
The report further emphasizes that we may soon witness growing frustration in Washington—particularly on the part of Trump—as he appears to face a choice between two undesirable options: escalating tensions with catastrophic consequences, or humiliatingly acceding to Iran’s demands.