Former U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta has warned that Washington has become embroiled in a conflict with Iran that, in his view, will be difficult to win and could evolve into a prolonged, inconclusive war similar to those in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Referring to the ongoing military operations between the United States and Iran, Panetta said the U.S. has repeatedly entered conflicts over the past several decades that consumed vast resources without producing a clear or satisfactory outcome.
In an interview with CNN, he said: “I believe we are trapped in an unwinnable war that could continue, like previous conflicts, without delivering a convincing or satisfactory result.”
The former defense secretary added that Iraq, Afghanistan, and now Iran are examples of prolonged conflicts that have placed significant economic and political burdens on the United States.
Panetta stressed that Washington should avoid becoming entangled in another lengthy and futile war in the Middle East.
According to reports, the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, which has lasted for several months, has also disrupted global energy markets, with oil prices rising amid concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the cost of the conflict has so far reached approximately $37.5 billion.
Meanwhile, recent exchanges of attacks and escalating threats between Iran and the United States have heightened regional tensions. Iran has warned that if further attacks occur, it will “punish” the United States and its regional allies.
Writer:Saeed Sameer
