War and Political Goals: An Analysis of the Iran-United States Conflict 2026

Fajar Nugraha; Helda Risman; Fauzia G. Cempaka Timur

doi:10.55927/fjmr.v5i6.91

Authors

Fajar Nugraha Universitas Pertahanan Indonesia
Helda Risman Universitas Pertahanan Indonesia
Fauzia G. Cempaka Timur Universitas Pertahanan Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/fjmr.v5i6.91

Keywords:

Iran, United States, Carl von Clausewitz, On War, Center of Gravity

Abstract

The military conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel in February 2026 marked a significant escalation in Middle East security dynamics, which have been dominated by indirect conflict and proxy wars. This article analyzes the conflict through the perspective of Carl von Clausewitz’s "On War," which states that war is a continuation of politics by other means. This research questions whether the military operations in the Iran–United States–Israel conflict in February 2026 had clear and directed political objectives. The article was examined using a qualitative approach based on literature review and strategic analysis. This research found that the military escalation that occurred showed signs of a war of choice, inconsistency, and an endgame that did not achieve the desired outcome.

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