How could US-Iran conflict end? Three experts give their views

September 4, 2026

The US-Iran conflict has entered its seventh month with no resolution in sight, as both sides continue military strikes and maintain hardline positions. A June ceasefire agreement that was supposed to produce a permanent deal within 60 days has expired without success. The US has implemented a comprehensive economic blockade against Iran and its trading partners while attempting to maintain limited shipping access through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has largely closed.

Who is affected

The United States and Iran (warring parties)
Countries that trade with Iran (subject to US sanctions)
Israel (involved in starting the conflict)
China, Russia, and other countries trading with Iran
The global economy (due to disrupted oil shipping routes)
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)
Iranian citizens (affected by economic sanctions and underlying structural issues)

What action is being taken

The US and Iran are exchanging military strikes
The US is implementing a sweeping economic blockade against Iran and countries trading with it
US forces are facilitating limited shipping access through the Strait of Hormuz
Iran is maintaining closure of the Strait of Hormuz to most commercial shipping
Iran is responding to attacks in a proportionate manner
Tehran is preparing for increased economic pressure

Why it matters

The conflict affects global commerce and economic stability because the Strait of Hormuz is a key commercial shipping route whose closure threatens oil supplies and could trigger an oil-price shock or global economic collapse. The situation also has nuclear proliferation implications, as a negotiated settlement could provide assurances that Iran will not develop nuclear weapons. Additionally, the conflict's resolution could determine whether hardliners or more moderate forces gain influence within Iran's Islamic Republic, potentially reshaping the country's political and social trajectory over time.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC