Trump's War in Iran: A Six-Month Quagmire

Less than two months after US President Donald Trump launched military strikes against Iran, he was confident that his plan would bring stability to the region. 'I have a plan for everything,' he told a reporter from the New York Post.

However, six months on and despite continued strikes by both sides, the conflict shows no signs of abating. Since February 28th, when Trump's military launched an operation against Iranian targets, at least 8,000 people have been killed across the Middle East, including over 3,600 civilians.

The US has also suffered significant losses, with 14 American service members and 417 injuries directly linked to Operation Epic Fury. Meanwhile, oil prices remain high, up 25% from pre-conflict levels, with benchmark crude at around $90 per barrel.

Analysts say that Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz has given Tehran a vital piece of leverage, allowing it to disrupt shipping and force up energy prices globally. The cost is estimated to have reached $91.6 billion as of August 26th, with US households facing an additional $381.64 in energy costs since the start of the war.

Trump's approval ratings have fallen to their lowest level since taking office, and the Democrats are poised to gain seats in the upcoming midterms, with a six-point lead according to recent polling.