US-Iran relations and deterrence and defense options.
Iraqi political analyst and activist Najah Muhammad Ali has sent a special note titled “US-Iran Relations and Deterrence and Defense Options” to the International Group, the full text of which is as follows:
1. General context of US-Iran relations
Iran-US relations are considered one of the most complex issues in international politics and have always been accompanied by tension and mutual confrontation since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Despite occasional efforts to reduce tensions, Washington continues to consider Iran a threat to its regional interests, while Tehran considers the policies of the US and its allies to be an attempt to weaken its strategic position.
In this context, US and Israeli pressures have increased to prevent the development of Iran’s peaceful nuclear program, claiming that Iran’s technical and technological capabilities could become a potential threat in the future. In contrast, the logic of deterrence is a fundamental pillar of Iran’s national security strategy, especially given that major powers and some regional rivals possess nuclear weapons. Despite Iran’s adherence to its international commitments, it has always been the target of political and economic pressure.
2. Iran’s Options for Strengthening Defense and Deterrence Capabilities
Deterrence Strategy and Defense Doctrine
Despite Iran’s emphasis on the peaceful nature of its nuclear program, Western pressure and persistent threats have forced Tehran to reconsider its defense strategies. In this regard, Iran’s policies should be based on the following axes:
Developing peaceful nuclear technology as an inalienable right, along with strengthening conventional defense capabilities to create a deterrent balance.
Increasing ballistic and precision cruise missile capabilities to strengthen the strategic deterrence system.
Improving air defense and electronic warfare systems to counter air and missile threats.
3. Diversifying strategic alliances
Strengthening relations with major powers such as China and Russia to ensure diplomatic support and access to advanced military technologies.
Expanding defense cooperation with countries aligned with the axis of resistance to create a common regional deterrent system.
Investing in economic relations with neutral countries and reducing dependence on the Western financial system.
4. Strengthening economic capabilities to counter sanctions
Developing domestic military and economic industries to reduce the impact of sanctions.
Creating alternative trade mechanisms through the use of local currencies and bartering with allies.
Reducing the public budget’s dependence on oil exports by diversifying revenue sources and strengthening non-oil sectors such as processing industries, technology, and agriculture. This will increase Iran’s resilience to economic sanctions and reduce the amount of Western pressure.