There is no trap. Everything is now out in the open. We were misled. We anticipated a massive bombing campaign across Iran or some sort of dramatic decapitation operation.
It turns out that the US is pursuing a very straightforward and logical strategy. They have a clear roadmap with a detailed, gradual plan to execute.
They begin with a naval blockade and simply observe Iran's response. If that proves ineffective, they will likely target symbolic yet less critical military assets, such as the Iranian Navy.
At each step, they will pause to assess Iran's reaction, allowing Tehran time to adjust hoping the regime's survival instincts kick in and they accept US demands. However, they maintain complete control over the escalation potential.
This clearly indicates that all the discussions about regime change were merely a tactic to instill fear. Their true aim is to have a defanged, non-threatening, harmless Iran that poses no threat.
The Americans at this point don't seem interested in catastrophic war consequences that would choke the region and global economy. Very Trump.
Israel may not be entirely pleased with this approach, but it is certainly better than nothing.
It does make sense to me.
The US probably wants to start 'Project China' before the Chinese become too powerful and therefore is not interested in a long war with the Iranians.
.
