NatSec Matters
Iran: John Sotos
Mar 20, 2024
Former CIA analyst John Sotos discusses Iran's goals in the Mideast, relations with the US, domestic support for the regime, and modern-day challenges since the Iranian Revolution. Topics include Iran's pursuit of regional power, internal struggles, success in regional objectives, and uncertainties facing the Islamic Republic.
51:04
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Quick takeaways
- Iran aims for regional respect and power, seeking US military presence withdrawal and Israel's challenges.
- Iran uses client militias and missile programs for deterrence, focusing on avoiding military conflicts.
Deep dives
Iran's Objectives and Goals
Iran seeks respect in the Middle East as a preeminent power with interests taken seriously. Their revisionist goals include the withdrawal of US military presence from the region and the exhaustion or collapse of Israel. Despite anti-Semitic rhetoric, Iran aims for a containment strategy to pressure Israel until its system collapses.
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