Twenty days into the U.S.-Israeli operation in Iran, American miscalculations are apparent as Tehran threatens retaliation and allies distance themselves.
U.S. Strategy in Iran Questioned
The 20th day of the U.S.-Israeli “special military operation” in Iran has revealed significant American incompetence. There is no clear understanding of U.S. objectives in Iran. Donald Trump claims he could end the war within a week, a claim widely doubted.
Trump dismissed the possibility of Iran retaliating by attacking oil or gas facilities—a scenario that would have catastrophic global consequences—stating “nobody expected that.” Concerns are growing about a potential U.S. ground invasion, to which Iran’s deputy foreign minister warned of a “second Vietnam” for American soldiers, a sacrifice Trump claims he is prepared for.
International Isolation for the U.S.
The United States is facing increasing international isolation. Trump has appealed for assistance from European countries, Japan, South Korea, and even China in opening the Strait of Hormuz.
Europe has firmly rejected Trump’s request, refusing to send its navy to Iran. China is hesitant to engage in naval maneuvers with Iran, though it is allowing Chinese cargo ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, even marking them with “CHINESE CREW” on their transponders.
Israel is shifting its focus towards a potential ground invasion of Lebanon, with a proposal submitted to the Knesset for the mobilization of nearly half a million Israeli reservists. Regional allies—Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, and Kuwait—are increasingly disappointed with the lack of American support after years of courting Trump.
Polish Podcast Update
The podcast “Co to będzie” (What will be) continues, covering current events in Poland.
New episodes are available on Thursdays at 6 PM on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and the Gazeta.pl homepage (at 8 PM on Thursdays). Spin-off podcasts “Co mi to da” (What will this give me) by Miłosz Wiatrowski-Bujacz and “Co to ma znaczyć” (What does this mean) by Marta Nowak are released bi-weekly on Mondays at 6 PM.
