Path to Iran War Resolution Remains Unclear as Regime Holds Ground

Conflict uncertainty framing combined with regime delegitimization. The headline emphasizes 'unclear paths' and 'regime holds ground' while aggregating headlines that range from questioning Trump's strategy ('stuck between combat and peace') to suggesting it's working ('starting to pay off'). The aggregation itself creates ambiguity while the lead emphasizes stalemate.

Trump administration's military pressure on Iran has not achieved decisive outcomes; internal Iranian factional divisions weaken unified negotiating position but also reduce regime vulnerability to external pressure. Regional allies (Gulf states, Israel) face prolonged uncertainty. Potential shift toward protracted conflict rather than rapid resolution.

Similar to Iran-Iraq War (1980-88) stalemate dynamics, where internal Iranian divisions and external military pressure created prolonged conflict without clear resolution pathway; also echoes US-Vietnam War negotiation impasses.

Prolonged conflict uncertainty may increase oil prices, raising gasoline and heating costs for households. Supply chain disruptions could increase consumer goods prices. Geopolitical risk premiums may elevate borrowing costs.

Potential for expanded sanctions regimes, increased defense budget allocations, energy policy shifts toward alternatives, and possible international diplomatic interventions. Central banks may adjust monetary policy in response to inflation pressures from energy markets.