Strait shot proves to be an own goal

June 18, 2026 — 5:20pm

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US President Donald Trump’s Middle East war has been a disaster that has devastated Iran and Lebanon and collaterally damaged the world’s economy, halted energy and fertiliser supplies and now must shape as one of the greatest own goals in military warfare.

The president came to power on the foundational foreign and domestic policy doctrine of “America First”, and his foreign and military debacle is not only attracting trenchant criticism at home but has made the US look weaker and ridiculous internationally.

Trump is now scrambling to take credit for a deal that may end the conflict with Iran, pave the way for restoration of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, ease oil prices, revive stock markets and provide a $425........

© The Sydney Morning Herald