Karim Sadjapour, Ret. Gen. Frank McKenzie on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," March 29, 2026

March 29, 2026

TL;DR

Mediating nations have gathered to discuss de-escalating the war in Iran, but Iran has not responded to U.S. proposals.
Iran feels it is in a war of survival and revenge against President Trump, making compromise unlikely.
The Houthis have entered the conflict by firing on Israel, but this is not seen as a game-changer, though it could slow Red Sea traffic.
The U.S. military has a multi-year plan to ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open, including reducing Iranian missile and drone capabilities.
The military has simulated various scenarios, including seizing Iranian islands to control the Strait of Hormuz and cripple its oil economy.
Experts disagree on Iran's willingness to negotiate, with one suggesting they are unbreakable due to their ideology and the other believing they will eventually compromise under pressure.
Potential outcomes include a ceasefire that opens the Strait of Hormuz, shifting the conflict to a cold war, or a negotiated settlement involving missiles and potentially the nuclear program.
The U.S. is preparing for a sustained military presence in the region, possibly involving escorts for tankers and ground troop options.
Iran may wish to negotiate with Vice President Vance, seeing him as potentially more inclined towards a swift resolution to the war.

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