Geopolitical stability in the Middle East, and the broader international security environment, continues to be endangered by Iran’s persistent malign activities. Iran’s relentless advancement of its nuclear capabilities, entrenched support for terrorism, and active involvement in regional conflicts, including its controversial role in the Ukrainian war, underscore the urgent need for a more assertive and comprehensive response by the United States.
Iran’s Continuing Threat to U.S. National Security
Iran’s geopolitical strategy is multifaceted and deeply rooted in national policy. Its relentless pursuit of nuclear capabilities, despite global condemnation and severe sanctions, poses a serious threat not only to the region but also globally. Combined with its track record of organizing and supporting transnational terrorist and violent subversive activities, Iran’s actions underscore the need for the United States to undertake an immediate and robust counterstrategy.
The strategic depth of Iran’s proxy network
At the heart of Iran’s regional strategy is a sophisticated proxy network that stretches from Hezbollah in Lebanon to various militant groups across the Middle East and even Pakistan. These proxy networks extend Iran’s influence and give it strategic depth, allowing it to exert significant influence while shielding it from direct international repercussions. This network supports a form of hybrid warfare that allows Iran to indirectly destabilize its adversaries, making it a complex threat that is difficult to counter.
The Need for Strong U.S. Policy and Response
The United States has taken initial steps to address the threat posed by Iran and its proxies, particularly in light of the recent escalation of militia attacks on U.S. forces. However, these steps are insufficient. The United States needs to adopt a comprehensive strategy that includes:
- Strengthening alliances: Strengthen coordination with international allies and regional partners to form a united front against Iran, share intelligence, align sanctions, and coordinate responses.
- Economic Sanctions and Diplomatic Isolation: Use economic sanctions to block funding to proxy networks and apply diplomatic pressure to further isolate Iran until it complies with international norms.
- Promote counter-propaganda efforts: Invest in information campaigns to counter Iranian propaganda and weaken the ideological appeal of its proxies, and support regional voices advocating peace and stability.
- Armament and Defense Posture: Strengthen military capabilities to protect U.S. interests and allies, secure sea lanes, and maintain ready forces to counter proxy attacks.
- Long-term engagement: Commit to a sustained presence in the region through diplomatic and development assistance to support stable governance and counter the allure of Iran-backed militias.
Anticipating a change in US leadership
The possible reelection of Donald Trump has caused great anxiety within the Iranian regime, which is eagerly preparing for this possibility in order to maintain its repressive regime and ensure a smooth succession from Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to his son. Khamenei’s ambitions to expand the Shiite Crescent and challenge the global order have led Iran to align more closely with China and Russia, exacerbating its international isolation.
Michael Morrell warns
Michael Morell’s warning in Foreign Affairs that “the United States is on the brink of a major terrorist threat” resonates deeply in this context. The story is reminiscent of the unheeded warnings pre-9/11 and portends the ominous consequences of underestimating signals from Iran. As the Trump administration prepares for a possible presidency, its persistent support for networks like the Islamic Resistance highlights its firm commitment to its long-standing strategy of regional and global destabilization.
Conclusion: The Need for Strategic Vigilance
The complexity of Iran’s proxy war and the hybrid nature of its warfare tactics require a dynamic, strategic response from the United States. Together with our allies, the United States must remain vigilant and continue to curb Iranian influence to ensure stability in the Middle East and protect our global security interests. The road ahead will be fraught with challenges, but with a coherent, multifaceted strategy, the international community can effectively mitigate the threat posed by Iran’s dangerous ties.
The author is a Washington-based counterterrorism analyst and Middle East studies scholar with a particular focus on Iran and the ethnic conflicts in the region. His new book is “The Black Shabbat” published in the U.S. Follow him at X @EQFARD and erfanfard.com.
