# Analysis: Trump is caught in an ‘escalation trap’ in Iran war

https://mins.news/en/video/15722

- Al Jazeera English, 2026-08-07 02:10 UTC
- World
- Original: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJlpf6AHMyU

> University of Chicago professor Robert Pape says the United States is caught in what he calls “the most wicked escalation trap in history” with Iran. He argues that US air and naval strikes have produced tactical successes but failed to meet any strategic objectives. In Pape’s view, Iran has emerged stronger than it was before the war. He says President Donald Trump must choose between accepting Iran’s growing influence and escalating the conflict further.

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