Entering the conflict's third week, President Trump grapples with a fundamental decision: escalate the war against Iran or begin withdrawing. The conflict, launched two weeks ago alongside Israel, has expanded dangerously, generating severe military, diplomatic, and economic repercussions. Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, crippling global oil trade and causing sharp price spikes. The US is deploying 2,500 Marines to the region, adding to nearly 50,000 already stationed there, following attacks on Iranian oil infrastructure. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that leaving now risks Iran retaining nuclear fuel near bomb-grade capability, potentially within a wounded regime's reach.

The war has already claimed 13 US lives and over 2,100 regional deaths, mostly Iranian civilians.