Trump's Iran conflict: boredom, denial, and legacy concerns

Six months after ordering the first strikes against Iran, Donald Trump appears to oscillate between boredom with the stalemated conflict and denial over growing American discontent. The president recently showcased a White House helicopter pad, mentioning "granite" 13 times but "Iran" only three times when questioned. The conflict, launched February 28 as "Operation Epic Fury," has cost 18 American lives and thousands more in Iran and Lebanon. Veterans and citizens express anger, with 60% opposing the war in a late July Quinnipiac poll. Republicans fear losing congressional seats in November's midterm elections. Trump has dismissed the operation as an "excursion" or "small detour," calling polls "fake" and vowing never to apologize. His administration has shifted from military threats to economic "asphyxiation" of Iran, though implementation remains vague. Experts suggest his focus on construction projects reflects concerns about his historical legacy.