US–Iran conflict likely to be prolonged, ex-Trump adviser warns

The conflict between the United States and Iran is unlikely to end quickly, former adviser to President Donald Trump Nate Swanson said in an interview with Politico.

Swanson, who previously served as director for Islamic countries at the U.S. National Security Council, expressed concern over what he described as both sides’ “irrational confidence” in their own strength. “I think the war is probably going to go on longer than anyone anticipated,” he said.

According to him, the United States could become entrenched in a prolonged confrontation, with the conflict continuing to escalate.

At the same time, Swanson noted that Iran has adopted a tougher and less flexible stance in international relations. He said Tehran currently feels confident and has no intention of capitulating.

“Either you’re going to have to escalate or you’re going to have to compromise. And so those are just the two options,” Swanson said, outlining the possible trajectories of the conflict.