Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Photo: AP
Israel’s recent attacks on Iran’s nuclear and military sites have raised tensions in the region and could change how Iran views its nuclear program. These strikes killed several top officials, including Iran’s military leader Mohammad Bagheri and the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Hossein Salami.
Aftermath of the Attacks
The attacks have shaken Iran. Many people in Tehran are in shock and fear. Some believe the strikes could push Iran to move faster toward developing nuclear weapons. Experts worry that these attacks might encourage Iran to work harder to get a nuclear deterrent.
Ali Vaez, an expert on Iran, said that if Iran faces setbacks, it could lead the country to become more determined to develop nuclear weapons.
Internal Debate in Iran
Iran has always had debates between its reformers and hardliners about whether to make a deal with the US on its nuclear program. After the recent attacks, hardliners now have the upper hand, arguing that Iran should not negotiate with the West from a position of weakness.
The US had pulled out of the nuclear deal in 2018, which made it harder for Iran to trust the US. Now, talks seem even more difficult.
Israel’s Strikes and the Future
Israel’s strikes on Iran, planned months in advance and with US approval, have made any chance for diplomacy seem unlikely in the short term. Reza H. Akbari, an expert on the region, said it’s hard to imagine Iran’s leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, not siding with hardliners after these attacks.
Iran’s Response
In response, Iran has launched missiles and drones at Israel, some of which hit their targets. Iran used to rely on its "Axis of Resistance" for protection, including groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon. However, Hezbollah’s strength has been reduced after its war with Israel, and the fall of Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad has weakened Iran’s position.
Trump’s Role
US President Donald Trump has urged Iran to agree to a deal, warning that Israel’s attacks will only get worse. Michael Stephens, an expert on Iran, said that Iran has limited options—either it gives up on its nuclear program or faces more attacks. But continuing with the nuclear program could be even harder now.
Iran’s Dilemma
Despite Israel’s power, Iran is hesitant to give up its nuclear program. Iran’s leaders fear following the example of Libya’s Muammar Gaddafi, who gave up his nuclear program in exchange for relief from US sanctions, only to be overthrown and killed later.
Experts believe Iran might respond to the attacks by expanding its nuclear program, though it’s unclear how fast or far Iran will go.
English
