The U.S. achieved more strategic objectives against Iran than Tehran during the recent conflict, but the resulting cease-fire is not a definitive resolution, according to a Wall Street Journal opinion piece. The author contends the press narrative incorrectly portrays President Trump abandoning core war aims to secure a deal allowing Iran continued access to the Hormuz Strait—a claim the author disputes as a misreading of events. China's mediation played a significant, though understated, role in facilitating the settlement, the article notes, emphasizing the settlement's fragility and the unresolved nature of the conflict. No permanent victory for either side is declared, underscoring the ongoing volatility in the region.