Seven Key Points on the Way Forward

Dr. Foad Izadi

1⃣ Avoid Rushing into Concessions

Do not be in a hurry to grant concessions. The costs the United States has incurred so far remain manageable for them. This implies a continuation of the cycle of "war, ceasefire, negotiation, and war." The U.S.-Israeli strategy against Iran is designed as a four-year plan, not a one or two-year one. While the opposition has achieved its short-term objectives, it has yet to reach its long-term goals; therefore, their mission is far from over.

2⃣ Sustaining Economic Pressure

The economic pressure resulting from the war—specifically high oil and gas prices in the U.S.—must continue for at least another two months. Consequently, the Strait of Hormuz must remain closed for at least that duration.

3⃣ The Strategic and Financial Weight of the Strait of Hormuz

It is vital to take the revenue potential of the Strait of Hormuz as seriously as its geopolitical importance. International centers estimate Iran’s potential annual revenue from the Strait at a minimum of $80 billion—double Iran's annual oil sales. While $80 billion is not a massive sum in global equations, the cost of the Strait's closure to the global economy has been approximately $1 trillion so far. This demonstrates to the world that the cost of honoring the rights of the Iranian people is far lower than the long-term cost of the current status quo.

4⃣ Learning from Past Experiences

Never forget the lessons of the past. As long as the United States remains the "United States," its sanctions against Iran will persist and will not be lifted in any serious or permanent manner. Lifting sanctions is not within the sole discretion of the U.S. Executive Branch; it requires the approval of Congress.

5⃣ Retaining Enriched Uranium

Do not relinquish the supply of enriched uranium. If enriched uranium is shipped out of the country or diluted, Trump will likely threaten Iran with the use of nuclear weapons.

6⃣ Leveraging Internal U.S. Divisions

Internal American political divisions must be taken seriously. Support for a continued war with Iran will vanish in Congress if it becomes clear that the conflict is destined to be prolonged and prohibitively expensive.

7⃣ Maintaining National Unity

It is essential to keep the public—who are under significant economic pressure—informed and aligned with the country's policies. A lack of public justification for these strategies leads to a decline in national cohesion.