The US is stuck in an unwinnable Iran war it can't escalate or exit, which is bad for the economy, troops, and Trump's standing.

• A big planned strike on Iran was called off because US air defenses and missile stockpiles in the Middle East are running low.
• Iran's cheaper, accurate missiles make a long war costly for the US, which spends millions to counter weapons that cost thousands.
• The fighting is spreading, with Saudi Arabia now striking Houthi targets in Yemen after Red Sea shipping attacks.
• Most Americans are down on the economy, and a Fox News poll shows more now trust Democrats than Republicans to handle it.
• Trump's new tariffs and the war's rising costs are dragging on the US and world economy, while some countries like Brazil push back against US officials.

Outlook: With no clear win and thinning defenses, expect more stalemate, spreading conflict, and economic strain in the near term.