Israel has again demonstrated an uncanny ability to rewrite the regional playbook with a multi-pronged, multi-day attack on Iran’s nuclear program, air defenses, and military leadership. The first phase of attacks in particular—strikes at the heart of Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, the decapitation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IRGC) Quds Force leadership, and nuclear scientists—caused many to marvel at the boldness of David against Goliath. As the Trump administration navigates this chapter, the key will be to contain and defuse the situation as the regional players sort through the changed landscape. De-escalation in the near term is not a foregone conclusion. It will require heavy lifting from the US military, which remains indispensable in times of crisis.
How the US can reduce the risk of wider war in the Middle East – Atlantic Council
