The United States military currently possesses the raw power to force major concessions from Iran, but a different kind of battle at home might stop that momentum in its tracks.
Victor Davis Hanson, a Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, argued Thursday that while the Pentagon’s reach is nearly limitless, the Trump administration is navigating a minefield of domestic political constraints.
This assessment comes on the heels of “Operation Epic Fury,” launched by the administration on Feb. 28. The operation involved surgical strikes against Iranian military installations and nuclear facilities following a total breakdown in diplomatic negotiations. Appearing on Fox News “Special Report,” Hanson explained to host Bret Baier that the friction isn’t happening on the battlefield.
“If you have overwhelming military power, you can force those concessions. The problem the United States has right now is not military. They can do what they need. It’s Donald Trump’s political problems,” Hanson said.
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According to Hanson, the real pressure points are the looming midterm elections, a fluctuating economy, and a fickle American public. He noted that the administration’s ability to hit its objectives depends less on weaponry and more on “how much of a political price they’re willing to risk.” Hanson emphasized that while the military can achieve its goals, the Republican party is wary of the fallout in Congress.
Public sentiment seems to back Hanson’s caution. Recent polling conducted shortly after the strikes reveals a nation deeply skeptical of the escalation.
Only about 27% of Americans currently support the strikes, while a clear majority expresses disapproval. Even the President’s own party shows signs of hesitation; 42% of Republicans indicated they would reconsider their support if U.S. troops begin to take casualties.
Data from a YouGov/Economist poll further illustrates this divide, placing overall support for the conflict at just 28%, compared to 59% who oppose it.
While “MAGA” Republicans remain largely in favor, only one-third of non-MAGA Republicans support the current trajectory. With current trends suggesting a potential shift in congressional control, the administration is facing a narrow window to balance military objectives against the reality of the ballot box.
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