US Struggles to Contain Iran's Nuclear Ambitions and Missile Threats
The US has long viewed Iran as a threat in the Middle East, with its nuclear ambitions, ballistic missile program, and support for terrorism. A new report highlights Iran's defiance and the US's struggle to contain it.
The 2017 National Security Strategy labelled Iran a regional power seeking to expand influence and acquire a nuclear weapon. The US policy aimed to push Iran back to negotiations for a more comprehensive deal. However, since the US withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018, Iran's actions have escalated. It has enriched more uranium at higher levels, developed and used advanced ballistic missiles, and leveraged proxies to attack US forces and allies.
Iran has used these missiles six times since 2017, twice targeting US military bases in Iraq. The US has responded with a 'super-maximum pressure' campaign, combining economic sanctions and military actions. Yet, this approach has driven Iran into more destructive behavior. Hardline parties have gained power in Iran, and the country recently passed a law promising to enrich uranium closer to weapons-grade levels.
The US's aggressive policy towards Iran has not yielded the desired results. Instead of encouraging constructive change, it has emboldened Iran's defiance. With Iran advancing its nuclear program and missile capabilities, the US faces a challenging task in ensuring regional security and stability.
