Trump's Iran strike spirals from quick hit to open-ended conflict

Two weeks after Trump ordered strikes on Iran, the operation has evolved into an open-ended war. Initial momentum killed senior Iranian leaders but wiped out potential successors, prompting Iran to retaliate across the region and threaten key oil routes, triggering a global energy squeeze. Thirteen American service members have died and about 140 wounded; Washington lacks a clear endgame, allies are alarmed, and internal planning shows coordination gaps after downsizing the NSC, even as Trump touts victory and weighs next steps.