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The Memo: Frustrated Trump struggles against perception that he’s losing control of Iran war

What happened

Iran has expanded attacks beyond Israel to target oil and gas infrastructure across the Gulf region, hitting refineries in Kuwait and the UAE. The strikes have triggered global energy price surges and supply concerns, with aluminum and fertilizer costs also climbing sharply. President Trump faces mounting political pressure over perceptions he's losing control of the conflict he initiated with Israel three weeks ago.

Why people care

This marks a significant escalation as Iran broadens the conflict beyond its dispute with Israel to threaten global energy supplies. The economic ripple effects are already being felt worldwide through commodity price spikes, raising concerns about broader economic stability.

The takes

Critics say

Trump has lost control of a conflict he chose to start alongside Netanyahu, with Iran's expansion of attacks proving the initial strategy has backfired. The administration's early claims about destroying Iran's military capabilities now appear premature as the conflict widens beyond what was originally intended.

Administration likely says

The conflict remains manageable despite Iran's escalatory moves, and the administration is working to contain the situation. Iran's attacks on Gulf infrastructure represent desperate measures by a weakened regime rather than evidence of American strategic failure.

Sources