Political Picture · international

Filed by Deacon Rift

A new opinion piece at The Hill draws a pointed historical parallel, arguing that President Trump's approach to Iran echoes Lyndon Johnson's failed strategy in Vietnam. The author contends that gradual escalation—the "slow squeeze" designed to force an adversary to the negotiating table—did not work against Hanoi and will not work against Tehran. While acknowledging the differences between the two conflicts, the column urges the White House to recognize that incremental pressure rarely compels determined adversaries to capitulate, and may instead entrench their resolve. The piece adds a critical voice to the ongoing debate over U.S. Iran policy, which remains sharply divided between those favoring maximum pressure and those warning of mission creep.