Analyst reacts to Iran's strategy against the US: 'it's shocking'
An EA-18G Growler prepares to launch from the USS Abraham Lincoln. US Navy/Handout via REUTERS
March 12, 2026
MSNBC analyst David Rohde reported that Iran's military strategy is proving effective against an unprepared Pentagon under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. With U.S. military officials unable to protect oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran currently holds the advantage in the conflict.
Rohde expressed shock at Iran's effectiveness, stating the situation is shifting in Tehran's favor within the past 48 hours. Despite America's substantial naval presence, Rohde criticized the lack of aggressive military response, noting the U.S. has no answer to Iran's blockade of the critical shipping route. Iran's control over the Strait threatens 20 percent of the world's global energy supply.
Rohde acknowledged the war's overall trajectory remains unclear but emphasized Iran has "found their footing," capitalizing on Pentagon unpreparedness and strategic positioning to disrupt global energy commerce.
Watch the video below.