The escalating war with Iran has exposed deep fractures in the foreign policy of Donald Trump, according to a new analysis arguing the conflict has dismantled core elements of the president’s global strategy.

Writing in The Contrarian, commentator Jennifer Rubin says the war has triggered a cascade of strategic failures — from strained alliances to economic fallout — leaving the United States more isolated and vulnerable.

Rubin argues the conflict has simultaneously exposed the limits of military force, deepened geopolitical rivalries and undermined Washington’s credibility with allies.

“War against Iran has underscored that his preference for wars of aggression, mistreatment of democratic allies and economic illiteracy have been disastrous,” she wrote.

Hard power hits its limits

The war has highlighted the limits of American military dominance, Rubin argues, warning that Washington now faces the prospect of a prolonged regional confrontation.

Despite the strikes, analysts widely doubt the collapse of Iran’s leadership. Instead, Tehran has intensified missile and drone attacks across the region, while the US is increasingly tied to the strategic calculations of Israel.

Meanwhile, Russia’s role in the conflict has complicated matters further. Reports that Russia is sharing intelligence with Iran have sharpened criticism of Trump’s previously conciliatory stance toward Vladimir Putin.

By contrast, Rubin notes that Ukraine — long criticised by Trump — has become a global leader in drone and counter-drone warfare.

Allies drift as economic pressure mounts

Rubin also argues the conflict has undermined Trump’s claim that the US can act independently of its allies.

European and Middle Eastern partners have shown little appetite for joining the war, leaving Washington to shoulder the bulk of the military and economic burden.

At home, the economic consequences are mounting. Rising oil prices linked to the conflict are fuelling inflation and increasing pressure on American consumers.

Perhaps most damaging, Rubin concludes, is the reputational cost. By launching strikes without broad international backing, the US risks reinforcing narratives promoted by rivals such as China that Washington acts as an unchecked global power.

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Donald Trump doesn't do "policy". He only has whims.