Iran is much weaker than the last time it faced Trump: Hal Brands

Donald Trump may find the Middle East ripe for strategic influence if he returns to office. With Iran weakened, Israel empowered, and US-Israel ties strong, Trump could revive his "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran, deter its proxies, and support Israel's military objectives. Key challenges include Gulf state hesitancy, oil market impacts, and the Gaza conflict. Trump's policies would aim to counter Iran's influence but could risk sparking regional escalation.

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By Hal Brands

 The Middle East has long been a source of misery for Washington. It could be a land of opportunity for Donald Trump.

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