Why is it so hard for the U.S. to win wars?

"Forever Wars: A Pattern of Underestimation and Overextension in US Foreign Policy. Despite promises of swift and decisive victories, U.S. presidents have consistently found themselves entangled in protracted and bloody conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq, and now Iran. From George W. Bush's 'mission accomplished' moment in Iraq to Donald Trump's boast of a 'total victory' in Afghanistan, these conflicts have defied predictions and exacted a heavy toll on American lives and resources. As the U.S. continues to navigate the complexities of Middle Eastern politics, a growing question emerges: have U.S. leaders learned from past mistakes, or are they doomed to repeat the same pattern of underestimation and overextension?"

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.