‘WAR of choice; peace of necessity’ is more than a gripping sound bite. It sums up a momentous blunder by Washington. None of America’s war aims have been achieved. The Iranian regime is still there, as is its nuclear material stockpile, the missile capabilities, and the ability to dominate the region. And by its successful control of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has taken its deterrence capability to the next higher level.

Beyond Iran, Russia has made significant geopolitical and economic gains. China’s diplomatic profile has further risen, not just in the region but globally. And many middle powers are trying to fend for themselves by forming their own groupings. As reported by the Guardian recently, a former State Department official Mira Rapp-Hooper has described the war as a “superpower suicide”.

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