Mr. Trump has opened a rift with Britain, Germany and France, who were partners to the pact along with Russia and China, and he has handed Iran’s Islamic regime some unfortunate opportunities. The first consequence of Mr. Trump’s decision could be conflict with the Europeans. How would Mr. Trump stop such a breakout, short of war? The Saudis and Israelis may hope that Mr. Trump’s decision will draw the United States back into the Middle East through a confrontation with their enemy. The president has frequently said that he has no wish for further Mideast wars; his decision has made one more likely.

Source: Washington Post May 08, 2018 23:48 UTC