Iran War: Who Will Hold Out, Who Will Surrender? Here's the Global Editorial Explanation

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA — The war between Iran and the United States and Israel has now entered a bewildering phase, not due to a lack of events, but because of too many contradictions. Attacks continue unabated, yet signals of peace are also emerging. The world’s energy routes are shaken, but the ultimate strategy remains unclear. In such a situation, editorials from various international news outlets provide the clearest picture: this war is no longer about quick victory, but a battle of endurance. Here are the key questions, and their answers, based on a reading of global editorials. 1. What is actually happening in the current Iran war? According to The Guardian’s editorial, the war has entered a phase of attrition warfare. There are no signs of a quick victory for the United States side nor the collapse of Iran. Both parties are attacking each other, claiming successes, while covering up their respective weaknesses. This conflict has even expanded its impact to the global economy, from energy supply chains to fertiliser and fuel prices. 2. Will this war end soon? According to China Daily’s editorial, there are signals that President Donald Trump is beginning to consider ending the war—even if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. The White House assesses that opening that route would only prolong the conflict beyond the set time target. This indicates that Washington is starting to shift from a military strategy to political and diplomatic calculations. 3. Why does this war appear to lack a clear direction? The Guardian’s editorial assesses that there is no comprehensive strategy from the United States side. Trump is seen as mixing threats of escalation with claims of ongoing negotiations, without evidence of real diplomatic channels. At the same time, military deployments continue. This condition creates an inconsistent narrative, between war and peace running concurrently.