The dynamics of President Donald Trump's war on Iran suggest it is likely to end with a whimper not a bang, despite promises of a swiftly executed military operation that would bring enduring political change. However, as Trump gives his negotiators more time to make progress, the stage is set for talks. His grandiose ambitions for Iran are likely to stay out of reach. He cannot guarantee Iran a nuclear weapon, nor can alter an Iranian missile program. Iran will not have the guarantee it seeks of all hostilities ending forever and its desire for reparations is remote. Israel will not be able to “disarm” Hezbollah, which remains a strong political and military force in Lebanon. Despite Iran’s aggressive response, the US is lacking good military options and lacks a large number of troops to the region.