Iran-U.S. tensions risk becoming a perpetual “eternal war”

The cease‑fire brokered in June between the United States and Iran has collapsed, with both sides intensifying air strikes, drone attacks and missile fire. The conflict now threatens commercial navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint that carries about 20 % of global oil and gas shipments.

Analyst Kelly Griako of the Stimson Center warns that the pattern resembles an “eternal war” — periodic combat without a lasting political settlement. Iran’s forces have hit targets in several Persian Gulf states, while U.S. aircraft have increased strikes on Iranian territory. Iran‑backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have also threatened Saudi Arabian shipping lanes, raising concerns of a broader maritime confrontation.

Diplomatic efforts persist but remain stalled. Iran’s interior minister, Eshaq Jahangiri, visited Pakistan – a key mediator for the June truce – in a bid to revive talks. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that America has “no interest in a meeting,” signaling limited willingness for dialogue and a possible further expansion of U.S. air operations.