Today in Focus The Maga divide over Iran
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Mar 25, 2026 Andrew Roth, The Guardian global affairs correspondent in Washington, DC, discusses rapid shifts in US Iran strategy. He details the White House’s search for an off-ramp and messaging aimed at markets. He covers risks of a ground invasion, the cost and congressional funding battles, and how MAGA figures are positioning politically for 2028.
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White House Is Freelancing Its Iran Strategy
- The White House appears to be improvising rather than following a long-term plan for the Iran conflict.
- Andrew Roth describes daily whiplash as Trump shifts strategy, cancelling ultimatums and changing targets with little evident political planning.
Tactical Successes Haven't Delivered Strategic Control
- The administration seeks a quick off-ramp because battlefield successes haven't delivered strategic gains like reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
- Roth notes military strikes killed leaders and ships but Iran still controls key levers, leaving the US politically trapped.
Trump Uses Messaging To Soothe Markets
- Trump times messaging to calm markets, using deadlines and public posts to influence trading weeks and oil prices.
- Roth points out the five-day extension was announced before markets opened and matched the trading week window.