From Foreign Policy · John Haltiwanger · · 1m 20s
Trump Could Restart Iran War Post-Election
Trump's mixed signals on Iran war after midterms raise military readiness concerns.
In brief
Trump's mixed signals on Iran war after midterms raise military readiness concerns. Trump's potential return to war with Iran risks long-term U.S. military depletion after $47.1 billion in costs. Originally reported by Foreign Policy.
U.S. Military Readiness Concerns
U.S. military faces profound long-term readiness concerns after $47.1 billion in costs.
Trump's Mixed Signals on Iran
Trump offered mixed signals about restarting war with Iran post-midterms.
Military Stockpile Depletion
U.S. used up to 65 percent of Patriot interceptors and 80 percent of THAAD interceptors.
Tomahawk and Reaper Drones
Tomahawk stockpile dropped from 3,000 to 2,000; quarter of Reaper drones reportedly lost.
Short-Term Military Readiness
U.S. can surge aircraft to interdict drones and suppress Iranian launchers temporarily.
Long-Term Readiness Risks
Long-term depletion risks include munitions stockpiles and disrupted readiness cycles.
Iran's Response Strategy
Iran reportedly plans immediate, effective strikes on U.S. bases and energy facilities.
Strait of Hormuz Vulnerability
Iran can disrupt traffic through Strait of Hormuz with diminished military.
Military Impact on Other Theaters
More capabilities used against Iran reduce availability for future conflicts.
U.S. Gulf Allies Prepared
U.S. told Gulf allies to brace for short campaign targeting Iranian infrastructure.
The big picture
Trump's potential return to war with Iran risks long-term U.S. military depletion after $47.1 billion in costs.
