NPR · July 20, 2026
Why is it so hard for the U.S. to win wars?
U.S. presidents have promised short, decisive wars in Afghanistan, Iraq and Iran. All have proved much more difficult than advertised and fallen far short of the political goals set at the beginning.
Truth Score
65/100
Mostly Confirmed
Why this score
While the article discusses the historical difficulty of U.S. military engagements, it frames the ongoing conflict with Iran as a 'war' that has failed to meet political goals. This is partially confirmed by multiple wire reports detailing ongoing U.S. airstrikes and retaliatory cycles in the region, though the characterization of the current situation as a failed 'war' is an editorial interpretation.
Red Flags
- inflammatory language
Cross-checked against
- Al Jazeera
- NPR
Original report: NPR