The US is reacting to Iran's attacks in the region. Iran has been attacking first.
> Based on what outcome? The regime is still intact, if not stronger.
> They are likely more resolute in wanting a nuclear weapon, as we almost certainly wouldn't have attacked them if they had one.
Russia has nukes and yet Ukraine is happily able to attack deep into Russia. Russia hasn't nuked Ukraine yet. I suspect if we had to, we still would've attacked them. Countries like Iran and North Korea lose their entire country if they launch a nuke.
> They have validated their control over the Straight of Hormuz and it's impact on our economy.
What was validated is that they have limited control over the strait, and we also have validated control over the strait as well as economic impact on Iran.
The more they harass the strait, the weaker that card becomes as more investment goes into alternatives.
This also pressures Chinese oil supply chain.