Paul Krugman's assessment of strategy

March 23, 2026

Trump tries to calm market fears about the continuing war in Iran, Trump threatens Middle East oil infrastructure, Trump then rescinds threat citing progress in negotiations with Iran, Iran denies Trump’s claims and social media suggests Trump's actions are meant to manipulate the market, Trump continues to claim that talks are underway with Iran though there is no apparent incentive for Iran to join such talks, Asked about the Strait of Hormuz, Trump claims it will be opened soon, but is unclear about how it will be controlled.

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