The US-Iran Conflict: What’s Happening and What’s Next for the Trump Team

The US and Iran have had a complicated relationship for a long time. It started out well in the mid-1900s when the US supported Iran’s leader, Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. In 1953, the US and UK helped stage a coup against Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh, who had taken control of Iran’s oil from foreign companies.

This put the Shah back in power and kept oil flowing to the West. During the Cold War, the US even helped Iran start a peaceful nuclear program. But everything changed with the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which ousted the Shah and created an Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. This led to the US embassy hostage crisis, lasting over a year, and cut off diplomatic ties.

For example, consider the story of ABC News correspondent Pierre Salinger, who was among those held hostage in Tehran. His experience, filled with uncertainty and isolation, captured the world’s attention and highlighted the deep rift that had formed overnight. Things got even more intense during the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, when the US backed Iraq. Over the years, issues like US sanctions, Iran’s nuclear plans, and conflicts with allies in the region kept tensions high. In 2015, President Obama’s nuclear deal (JCPOA) offered some relief by curbing Iran’s nuclear work in exchange for easing sanctions. But President Trump withdrew in 2018, increasing pressure and setting the stage for today’s tensions.

Fast forward to late February 2026: The US and Israel launched airstrikes on Iran, known as Operation Epic Fury. These attacks aimed at leaders, nuclear sites, missiles, and military locations, resulting in the deaths of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and others. This action occurred without Congressional approval, leading to a broader conflict. Iran is retaliating with missiles and drones targeting US bases, Israeli cities, and allies in the region. Now in its second week, the conflict is impacting American lives and the economy, complicating President Trump’s team’s ability to fulfill their promises.

How It’s Affecting Everyday Americans

This war is resonating with many Americans, particularly as costs increase during an election year. The public is not pleased—a recent CNN poll indicates that 59% disapprove of the US actions, and most anticipate that it will continue rather than conclude swiftly. Over half believe that it is making Iran a more significant threat.

Gas prices are really causing a lot of trouble right now. They’ve gone up to about $3.20–$3.50 a gallon all over the country, which is a 15–40 cent increase from before. Some places, like Los Angeles, are seeing prices as high as $8.22. So, what’s the reason? Iran has blocked the Strait of Hormuz, which is a super important route for 20% of the world’s oil. This is causing supply issues and making ships take longer routes. Take Sarah, for example, a single mom from Texas who drives 50 miles every day to get to her nursing job. She shared in a popular TikTok video that she used to spend $50 a week on gas, but now it’s $80, and she’s having to skip meals to make ends meet. Stories like hers are everywhere, showing how global tensions are affecting everyday life. This means higher bills for heating and electricity, plus travel chaos that is leaving thousands stranded, including Americans overseas.

It’s not just about energy—food could cost 15–25% more by spring because of supply problems and more expensive shipping. Humanitarian concerns are also growing, with reports of over 1,300 deaths in Iran, including civilians, which is causing outrage and calls for justice over incidents like the bombing of a girls’ school. For US troops and their families, it’s incredibly sad—six service members have already lost their lives, and more could be lost. One veteran, who remembers his time in Iraq, told NPR, “I’ve lost friends in endless wars before; this feels like déjà vu, and it’s tearing families apart again.” Back home, wars like this can lead to more government oversight and stricter rules, which can take away some freedoms.

What It’s Doing to the US Economy

Before the strikes, the economy was doing well, but now it’s facing some challenges. Oil briefly went up to $120 a barrel, but it’s now around $100, which means 20 million barrels are being taken out of the market each day. If things don’t improve, prices could reach $100–$200, which could increase inflation by 0.6–0.7 points and slow things down.

Experts worry about "stagflation"—prices up, growth down—which might cut GDP growth in half from the expected 2.4%. Stock markets are bumpy, with most dropping but defense companies rising. Picture a retiree in Florida watching his 401(k) plummet overnight, much like during the 1970s oil crisis when lines at gas stations stretched for blocks and families rationed fuel for road trips. Shipping costs are soaring as routes detour around Africa, affecting goods from clothes to food, with full effects maybe a year out. The trade gap, already huge at $1.24 trillion last year, is getting worse.

War spending is skyrocketing—the first days cost $5.6 billion in bombs alone, and more is needed. A long fight could mean more job losses, less investing, bigger debts, and pain for families and retirees.

Trump's Goals and What He Promised

President Trump sees this as key to stopping Iran's nukes, missiles, and meddling in the region. He wants to block nuclear weapons and change the government there. His February 2026 order brought back tough sanctions, even on countries dealing with Iran, echoing his 2018 pullout from the nuclear deal. He calls it a quick "excursion" of 4–5 weeks to oust the regime and put in a friendly leader. Trump says it'll make America safer, cut energy costs eventually, and help allies—fitting his "America First" vibe.

But the reasons have shifted from hitting a hidden nuke site to full leadership takedown, confusing some. Officials like Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth push for total win, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio hints at tougher moves.

Challenges Blocking Success

Even with strong military power, Trump's team faces big roadblocks, much like the Iraq War where quick wins turned into long messes. The main issue? No clear plan for after the fight. Democrats in Congress say there's no solid goals, exit strategy, or legal backing under war laws. Key opponents include Senate Leader Chuck Schumer, who calls Trump "trigger-happy" for starting a "war of choice" without approval or a real plan. Schumer has blasted the approach as "confusing," urged releasing oil reserves to ease gas hikes, and demanded hearings on tragedies like the school bombing—dismissing Trump's missile claims as "asinine" lies. Remember the 2020 tensions when Trump ordered the strike on General Soleimani? Schumer was vocal then too, warning of escalation without strategy, a stance that's echoed loudly now. Others like House Leader Hakeem Jeffries (pushing for checks), Senator Tim Kaine (calling war talk disrespectful), Bernie Sanders ("no war with Iran"), Raphael Warnock (Trump "out of control"), Jeanne Shaheen (war powers votes), Ayanna Pressley (endless wars), and Ro Khanna (blocking unauthorized moves) are teaming up to limit Trump's options. Air strikes weaken Iran but won't topple the regime without boots on the ground—something Trump avoids—possibly leading to a drawn-out tie.

Iran is tough, fighting back hard with allies like Hezbollah and Houthis, staying united under new leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Asymmetric tactics, including cyberattacks and strikes on US assets, could prolong the fight and inflict mounting casualties.

Money-wise, the huge costs and oil jumps contradict Trump's low-price promises, stirring anger at home and hurting Republicans in elections. Internationally, allies like the UK and France are hesitant, while Russia and China bolster Iran, eroding US leverage. Munitions shortages and global disruptions further strain resources.

What's Next?

As this US-Iran clash continues, Americans face higher bills, uncertainty, and sad losses. Trump's bold aims are up against tough challenges, from unclear plans to worldwide issues. Without a fast fix or better roadmap, it could widen splits here and spark more trouble elsewhere, challenging our country and leaders to stay strong.