Israeli-American Attacks on Iran: Options to End the War Narrow as Resolution Delays

For several weeks, the United States and Israel have claimed to have significantly weakened Iran’s military capabilities. US President Donald Trump and his Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have repeatedly asserted that ongoing strikes have dismantled Iran’s command structure and diminished its ability to respond. According to them, the conflict should be nearing its end. However, the reality appears to be quite the opposite. Tensions continue to escalate rapidly, with fewer prospects for resolution amid intensifying confrontations.

Amid claims that Iran’s capabilities are lower than anticipated, Iran launched two missiles approximately 3,800 kilometers (2,300 miles) toward the US and British military base on Diego Garcia island in the Indian Ocean. Although the missiles failed to reach the island, the incident raised new concerns about Iran’s capabilities. Previously, Iran’s missile range was believed to be approximately 2,000 kilometers. It remains unclear whether this extended range was previously concealed or developed during the conflict, but the implication is clear: military pressure has not halted Iran’s advancement.

Despite extensive efforts to eliminate a large portion of Iranian leadership—including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, top official Ali Larijani, commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and heads of the armed forces—and to destroy key missile production centers, questions arise as to who is directing the campaign and how Iran has maintained its capabilities amid such intense pressure. This uncertainty appears to originate from the highest levels of command.