As the conflict in Iran and the Middle East continues, Herald writer Brian Taylor says America is unclear as to its objectives – with an impact upon global defence strategy. 

Missives from the bank are seldom welcome.  This week was no exception.  In a customer message, my bank attempted to assess economic stability after the outbreak of the Iran War. 

It noted, with almost litotic restraint, that the situation was “worrying” – but advised that it was important to “stay calm”. 

I make no complaint.  Eminently sensible guidance.  But a decidedly tough ask in these exceptionally troubled times. 

It is not just that a hideous conflict has arisen in the Middle East.  It is not just the lengthening list of casualties.  It is not just the evident prospect of escalation. 

The underlying concern is that there is no clarity as to the onslaught’s objectives.  From the United States, from Israel, from the Gulf states, from EU nations, from the UK. 

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That means it is very difficult to discern how the conflict might be ended, what might be a moment of resolution.  And so equally difficult to calculate how long the fighting might last. 

Team Trump dismiss warnings of an “endless war”.  They talk loosely of four to five weeks.  But this is without accompanying substance.  It is a glib message for the domestic audience from a President who previously said he could settle the Ukraine crisis in a day. 

In practice, there is very little in the way of cogent analysis from the........

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