The United States and Iran are caught in a constantly escalating cycle of mutual attacks, with both sides facing heavy pressure. A protracted war will not be easy for anyone. Although both countries have expressed their willingness to resolve the issue through diplomatic means, the memorandum of understanding signed in June has been declared invalid by both sides. Both countries showed no intention of making concessions in their public statements. But can both sides really continue to endure this months long war? From an economic and geopolitical perspective, analyze the constraints faced by both countries. Regarding Tehran: Economic pressure, military damage Iran's economy is under immense pressure - both from the US Israel war and decades of US sanctions. Although the military strength is still considerable, the infrastructure has been severely damaged. 1. Economic sanctions: Iran is one of the most heavily sanctioned countries in the world. The US sanctions have suppressed oil exports, blocked financial channels, and frozen assets, causing its per capita GDP to drop from $8000 to $5000 and oil exports to decrease from 2.2 million barrels per day to 1.5 million barrels per day. After signing the memorandum of understanding in June, the United States lifted the blockade, granted a 60 day exemption from sanctions, and promised to unfreeze assets, resulting in a 15% appreciation of the Rial on the same day. But the US resumed sanctions this week, dealing a heavy blow to the already weak economy. 2. National Defense Capability: According to CSIS analysis, Iran's military strength was severely weakened by US Israeli strikes in the first stage of the war. As of April 1st, missile inventory has been depleted by 30%, unmanned aircraft hangars by 60%, and a large amount of naval infrastructure and weapon production bases have been destroyed. The United States claims to have severely damaged Iran's nuclear facilities during a 12 day war in 2025. The new round of strikes since last week continues to exert pressure, including Thursday's attack on Datongbu Island. 3. Regional diplomacy: Iran's attacks on neighboring Gulf countries in March and April have already strained bilateral relations, and the current mutual attacks have further exacerbated the rift. The United States has military assets stationed in at least 19 locations in the Middle East. Iran claimed that its target was US military facilities, but the first phase of the attack had hit sovereign territory and caused civilian casualties. The conflict is driving Gulf countries to strengthen data sharing and early warning coordination. For the United States: Oil prices, midterm elections, and weapons shortages are also under immense pressure, and have failed to force Tehran to surrender. 1. Soaring oil prices: After a new round of attacks, crude oil prices jumped by 12%, and market concerns about the passage of the Strait of Hormuz have once again intensified. Before the war, about one-fifth of the world's oil passed through this waterway, and Iran's blockade has disrupted global energy prices. The average gasoline price in the United States has risen from $2.98 per gallon before the war to a peak of $4.63 per gallon in May. 2. Mid term elections: Rising oil prices and cost of living make war extremely unpopular. This week's YouGov poll showed that 57% of Americans believe that going to war was a wrong decision. As the November midterm elections approach, the Republican Party is at risk of losing its majority in Congress, with some polls showing a slight lead for the Democratic Party. 3. Weapon shortage: According to CSIS, although the US weapon inventory has not reached a critical level, it is decreasing. Four out of the seven types of main combat ammunition were consumed by more than half in the first stage, and even if increased production is promoted according to the National Defense Production Law, it will still take several months to years to replenish. In addition, the United States has lost 14 soldiers and injured 414 others. Will both sides stop because of this? Australian National University professor Alam Saleh said that although economic pressure and regional diplomacy need to be considered, the Iranian leadership sees this as a life and death battle and is unlikely to yield. He pointed out that Iran has developed economic resilience after 47 years of sanctions and is determined not to show weakness in front of the United States. If security is not guaranteed, Iran will not compromise, only resist. In terms of weapons production, US media reported that Iran quickly resumed drone production after the April ceasefire, and some analysts estimate that Iran may fully replenish its unmanned aircraft hangars within a few months. As for the United States, analysts say that concerns about weapon inventories are more directed towards potential conflicts with other countries in the future. International Crisis Group expert Finuken pointed out that the consumption rate of key weapons such as Patriot interceptors and Tomahawk missiles is astonishing, and these are exactly what are needed to deal with other major military accidents. Ultimately, a protracted war comes at a high cost to both sides. But Saleh believes that the reputation damage suffered by the United States is greater, and other countries are observing how the United States responds to Iran, rather than using overwhelming means to resolve conflicts between middle powers, which itself exposes the military limitations of the United States.