Cutbacks needed, not handouts

AS each day passes, the hope for a short conflict in West Asia becomes more uncertain, with some commentators now predicting a longer period of hostilities, even perhaps extending for one to three years.

Despite this, the most likely scenario remains a shorter campaign. The senior leaders in Iran have been removed, its missile arsenal has been severely depleted and its military infrastructure has been decimated. Nonetheless, Iran still has the capacity and appetite to fight.