Up until a dubious two-week ceasefire, President Trump had cost American taxpayers an estimated $35-40 billion for his ill-conceived war targeting Iran. Although decimating much of its military capability, how did America benefit? Not at all, truth be told.
Trump claimed sole authority for initiating the war based on the War Powers Act justifying an immediate defensive response to an imminent threat by Iran. He argued, “An Iranian regime armed with long-range missiles and nuclear weapons would be a dire threat to every American.”
His fabricated exaggeration with zero proof supporting it. Not only was Iran incapable of imminently launching a nuclear weapon, it wasn’t yet close to building one. Trump initially predicted a quick victory once Iran capitulated to an unconditional surrender and a change of leadership dictated by Trump. Neither transpired.
He threatened tens of thousands of American troops landing in Iran to remove its remaining enriched uranium buried stockpile. What about Trump’s brag that a previous bombing had “totally obliterated” it?
America has suffered because of Trump’s war. Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in skyrocketing prices at the gas pump and a calamitous fall in the stock market. Also, a slew of other economic concerns adversely affecting American businesses and consumer wallets. Never mind any subsequent rebound; the resulting economic harm already incurred is irreversible.
Trump warned of a war-crime slaughter of innocent civilians unless Iran immediately unblocked the strait (open previous to Trump’s war). Instead, he backed down with yet another TACO; thus, relenting to the temporary ceasefire. Negotiating stipulations include 15 demands by the U.S. and 10 by Iran (since slightly modified but still mostly favoring Iran.) Contradicting demands are extremely problematic in reaching a mutual compromise.
A futile war by a foolish and incompetent commander in chief.
Raymond A. Hult, Bountiful