The 11th Hour with Stephanie Ruhle Control issues? Trump looking for an exit as Iran war nears one-month mark
Mar 26, 2026
Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Yale leadership expert and author, breaks down Trump’s playbook and leadership risks. Brendan Greeley, Financial Times editor, analyzes market shocks from the Iran conflict and oil ripple effects. Evan McMorris-Santoro, reporter and analyst, maps shifting U.S. aims, negotiation players, and domestic political fallout. Multiple short conversations probe strategy, leverage, and economic consequences.
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White House Messaging Shift On Iran Conflict
- The White House narrative on the Iran war keeps shifting from rapid victory to rushed negotiations.
- Evan McMorris Santoro highlights daily changes: from “topple the regime in two weeks” to the U.S. appearing more eager to negotiate than Iran.
Trump's Words Create Predictable Market Volatility
- Donald Trump's statements move markets and create predictable swings tied to his threats and reversals.
- Jeffrey Sonnenfeld notes market reactions (6% moves, $15 WTI swings) follow Trump's weekend ultimatums and Monday corrections.
Strait Of Hormuz Gives Iran Growing Leverage
- Control over strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz is shifting leverage to Iran.
- Brendan Greeley warns 15% of global oil/gas capacity trapped there raises long-term price and input-cost risks for plastics and fertilizer.
