President Trump, who once vowed to avoid starting wars, might have found himself in a situation familiar to many of his predecessors.

No leader begins a war with the expectation of it lasting indefinitely. However, since Vietnam, several American presidents have engaged in conflicts that seem eternal until a subsequent leader decides to pull back, citing high costs and political fallout.

Regarding Iran, President Trump appears to face a similar dilemma. He campaigned on promises to end wars, particularly avoiding entanglements in the Middle East. Critics argue that his involvement in Iran might lead to the same outcome he sought to avoid.

The conflict initiated by the United States and Israel has oscillated between diplomacy and military actions. These efforts have not accomplished Trump’s goals of regime change or halting Iran’s nuclear program. Instead, a new problem has emerged, with the Strait of Hormuz blockaded.

Diplomatic efforts have stalled, leaving Trump frustrated. The war has resumed, breaking the ceasefire and leaving agreements, such as the memorandum of understanding, in disarray. Initially deemed to fulfill objectives, its interpretations vary widely and it collapsed within weeks.

“Both sides saw the memorandum as a means to continue the conflict, not as a path to peace,” said Ali Vaez, Iran project director for the International Crisis Group. Without a long-term strategy for peace, there’s a risk of fostering conditions for perpetual conflict.