Independent political analyst Alex Alfiraz Shears argues that the US government's latest push for "maximum economic pressure" on Iran is essentially a replay of a failed tactic employed during Trump's first term. He points out that during Trump's first term, the greater uncertainty surrounding his policies made countries more wary of his threats. However, in his second term, Trump's lack of credibility has become evident, weakening US influence in the international community and suggesting that secondary sanctions against Iran may have limited effectiveness. Shears notes that the US has made a series of strategic errors in pressuring Iran. He believes the fundamental problem lies in the US's apparent inability to effectively utilize its military power, as well as its lack of understanding of effective governance and diplomatic maneuvering. This is evident in the US's constant vacillation of its Iran policy. Shears states that Trump's treatment of US allies presents similar problems, such as his actions against Denmark and threats to annex Canada. He concludes, "All of this points to a broader reality: this administration seems to lack an understanding of geostrategic maneuvering."
