Daniel Davis Deep Dive IRAN WAR: There's More Joining the Fight /Lt Col Daniel Davis
Mar 20, 2026
Rose Kalenick, Middle Eastern program director focused on Gulf security. Jennifer Cavanaugh, military analyst on force posture and operational risk. They debate Iran’s leverage over the Strait of Hormuz and oil shock risks. They examine U.S. and Israeli roles in escalation, the dangers of island seizures, and how regional politics and burden-sharing shape possible widening conflict.
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Try A Unilateral Ceasefire To Shift Pressure
- Jennifer Cavanaugh counsels a unilateral U.S. ceasefire to reduce escalation and shift pressure to China, India, and other partners to reopen navigation.
- Stopping U.S. military action could blunt Iran's leverage and force its remaining partners to choose between stability and supporting closure.
Gulf States Bear The Immediate Costs Of Escalation
- Rose Kalenick explains Gulf states were dragged into the conflict despite warning the U.S. it would invite Iranian retaliation.
- Those states now suffer attacks on energy infrastructure and tourism, making them reluctant to support further escalation.
Israel Targeting Infrastructure To Cripple Iran
- Rose Kalenick says Israel is targeting Iran's industrial and civilian infrastructure, not just military assets, aiming to collapse Iran's state capacity.
- She notes Israel's campaign appears designed for regime collapse and to keep the U.S. engaged.