Iran Power Struggle Could Decide End of Trump's War, US Leaders Affected

An internal power struggle within Iran is reportedly intensifying six months into the conflict that began with US and Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026. Following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in the initial attacks, his son Mojtaba Khamenei assumed leadership, leading to a period of internal consolidation and an increased role for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). This shift has revealed divisions among Iran's ruling factions, particularly regarding negotiations with the United States, with hardliners maintaining an anti-concession stance despite ongoing economic pressure.

The "Trump's war," as it has been termed, has significantly impacted both the global and US economies. The conflict has caused the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market, leading to volatile oil prices, currency instability, and inflation. For US leaders, the war has been unpopular, affecting perceptions of President Donald Trump's administration and potentially influencing the 2026 midterm elections. The ongoing conflict has also incurred substantial military costs for the United States.