How the Iran war has made the US more vulnerable

The ongoing Iran war has significantly diminished the United States' capacity to project power in global regions, leaving allies and defense officials concerned about the country's ability to effectively deter its adversaries. To concentrate resources in the Middle East, the Pentagon has relocated crucial air defenses and removed the last remaining aircraft carrier from the Pacific.

The military presence in the Pacific and Europe has diminished considerably, and President Donald Trump's conciliatory approach towards traditional adversaries, such as Russia and North Korea, has further undermined the Pentagon's global influence, according to five former defense officials and a person familiar with Defense Department planning.

The Pentagon's diminished capabilities, combined with reduced stockpiles of missile interceptors and other key munitions, have created a growing consensus that the US military is losing its once-strong influence with allies. Despite maintaining substantial forces in the Middle East, including over 50,000 American troops, a dozen warships, and hundreds of aircraft, the US's distancing from allies, including canceling military exercises with South Korea and trashing Canada, has left traditional partners feeling vulnerable.

This situation is particularly pronounced in Asia, where the US has appeared to embrace Chinese leader Xi Jinping and North Korean ruler Kim Jong Un.

The White House has responded to the stalemate in the Iran war by shifting from air strikes to sanctions, a potentially risky move for global markets. However, the Pentagon has mostly supported Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's decision to focus on economic pressure rather than military action. The Pentagon has not acknowledged any threat to the country's prestige, stating that the US remains the most powerful fighting force in the world and that its military remains fully prepared to defend its interests.

Allies from Australia to Taiwan are expressing concerns about potential vulnerabilities should a conflict arise. Beijing has been increasing its incursions into Taiwan's airspace, causing deep anxiety among the US and its allies. Former Navy officer Bryan Clark argues that the lack of urgency in addressing these concerns is shocking. The smaller Asian countries are expected to feel the most significant impact as they lack the resources to maintain a carrier presence in the region.

The Iran war has also imposed significant demands on the US Navy, with two key aircraft carriers recently returning from deployments and requiring maintenance work. The USS Theodore Roosevelt is scheduled to depart San Diego in the coming weeks, and officials have indicated that it will face an extended deployment beyond the usual seven-month period.

Navy chief Admiral Daryl Caudle has expressed his reluctance to extend deployments but acknowledges the enemy may have a say in the matter. The significant demands on the US Navy have led to a reduction in the deployment of other key assets, such as the USS Abraham Lincoln, which is also in the process of returning from deployment and will face a longer deployment than usual.