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Esper Says US Backfoot, Pushes Economic Pressure, Trump Seeks Compensation

8/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Defense Secretary Mark Esper said the United States is on its back foot in the Iran war.
Defense Secretary Mark Esper warned strikes have damaged Iran’s forces and urged squeezing Iran’s economy, not relying on air power.
U.S. President Donald Trump is working to finalize a deal and obtain compensation from Iran, posting on Truth Social that Iran’s representatives seek compensation for damage, which was never in negotiations.

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Story summary

Defense Secretary Mark Esper said the United States is on its back foot in the Iran war.
Defense Secretary Mark Esper warned strikes have damaged Iran’s forces and urged squeezing Iran’s economy, not relying on air power.
U.S. President Donald Trump is working to finalize a deal and obtain compensation from Iran, posting on Truth Social that Iran’s representatives seek compensation for damage, which was never in negotiations.