Trump’s Iran campaign risks prolonged conflict, echoes post-9/11 ‘forever wars’

An analysis by Al-Monitor indicates that former President Donald Trump’s campaign against Iran could result in a long-lasting and unpopular conflict, reminiscent of the post-9/11 ‘forever wars.’ This perspective raises concerns about the potential for military engagement overshadowing diplomatic resolutions. The report comes amid ongoing discussions around the potential inclusion of Iran Reconstruction Funding in a US-Iran deal. Markets appear to interpret the analysis as decreasing the likelihood of a diplomatic agreement, as the focus shifts toward possible military actions. The current pricing for the inclusion of Iran Reconstruction Funding in a US-Iran deal by the end of 2026 reflects a challenging outlook. Odds for a YES outcome have shown minimal increases, with percentages hovering around the low double digits. Recent activity suggests some volatility, with notable price movements indicating skepticism regarding a diplomatic breakthrough. Key figures in these negotiations include U.S. Chief Negotiator Mike Vance and Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, with mediation efforts from Qatar and Pakistan. The geopolitical landscape remains tense, as developments such as potentia...