Trump is stepping away from the brink of war with Iran after a missile attack, but the roots of their dispute dangerously persist

Kevin Lamarque/Reuters

• President Donald Trump on Wednesday signaled that the US will not retaliate with military force for an Iranian attack on US and coalition forces that didn't lead to any casualties.
• Iran and the US have seemingly stepped away from the brink of war, but the road to peace is still elusive.
• Iran on Sunday announced it is leaving the nuclear deal, making it possible for them to develop nuclear weapons. Trump has made clear he's willing to do whatever is necessary to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear power.
• Iran also has deep ties to terrorists and militias across the region, and has sometimes taken years to retaliate.
• Trump said he's adding to the sanctions that are crippling its economy, and the US has built-up its presence in the region, which Iran already viewed as a threat. 
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After Iran fired missiles at US and coalition forces in Iraq early on Wednesday, the country opened the door to deescalating tensions and avoiding a wider war.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday signaled that he's prepared to walk through that door, and take an off-ramp away from a direct conflict.

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