Donald Trump is at risk of launching a war without purpose
The Economist
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Donald Trump’s potential decision to engage in a conflict with Iran without a clear objective could be dangerously reckless, as highlighted by The Economist. The article draws parallels to former President Barack Obama’s failed 2013 Syria policy, where a “red line” against chemical weapons use went unenforced, leading to Assad’s regime enduring and half a million deaths. This historical failure underscores the risks of issuing threats without follow-through, which could severely damage Trump’s credibility and escalate regional instability.
The article emphasizes that wars without defined goals often spiral out of control, causing prolonged conflict and significant human toll. Such actions would likely disrupt global oil markets, leading to volatile energy prices and broader economic uncertainty. Investors and businesses are particularly concerned about the potential for increased tensions in the Middle East, which could further destabilize international trade and recovery efforts post-pandemic.
From a business perspective, understanding these risks is crucial. A prolonged conflict with Iran would likely disrupt supply chains, impact global oil prices, and create political instability that affects international markets. This underscores the importance of considering both geopolitical and economic factors when analyzing potential conflicts, as they can have far-reaching consequences for businesses worldwide.
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Originally published on The Economist on 2/26/2026