US President Donald Trump has been inconsistent in his statements regarding the length and aims of the Iran war, which has seen him scrambling to define a victory. Despite the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and heavy bombing of Iran, Iran has rejected the possibility of an immediate return to the negotiating table. The Iranian government is threatening to strike any ship passing through the Strait of Hormuz if it does not establish deterrence. Despite this, Trump has previously used the US’s military strength to attack opponents and allies, but has typically backed down if it became clear that was not possible. An extended conflict with Iran could result in more US casualties, global economic damage, and a failure to protect regional allies.