The Intelligence from The Economist No good options: how Iran will respond
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Jun 23, 2025 
Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent, and Corbyn Duncan, a global correspondent, delve into the escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran following military strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. They explore the uncertain responses from Iranian officials and the potential ramifications for both nations. The discussion also touches on a curious uptick in religious adherence in the West, particularly among younger generations, amidst societal changes, and humorously examines the fading use of quotation marks in modern communication.
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Uncertain Impact of US Strikes
- The actual damage of US strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities remains uncertain due to hidden underground structures and potential undisclosed centrifuge stocks.
- Satellite images and Iranian claims are inconclusive, making the true impact on uranium enrichment unresolved.
Iran's Risky Retaliation Choices
- Iran's options for retaliation are mostly risky and potentially harmful to its own interests.
- Immediate responses likely involve proxy attacks, while larger-scale actions risk provoking even more severe American retaliation.
Diplomacy with Iran Challenging
- Diplomacy with Iran remains possible but difficult, as their government shows little willingness for major concessions.
- Previous talks before the conflict failed to yield substantial compromises on the nuclear deal.
