Vali Nasr, a professor of international affairs and Middle East studies at Johns Hopkins University, argues that the US-Israel war on Iran has shown the limits of military force.
Why military options have failed to achieve US objectives
Nasr states that despite on-again, off-again negotiations, the United States has no other option but to pursue a diplomatic solution with Iran. He explains that the US and Israel’s military options have come up short because Iran has not been defeated and therefore will not surrender.
What Nasr says about Iran’s strategic goal in the conflict
Nasr tells host Steve Clemons that Iran’s objective is to make sure the US and Israel understand that war with Iran isn’t easy. He adds that you don’t go to the table to demand surrender when the other side hasn’t lost, so a deal must be cut.
What does Nasr suggest the US should do now?
Nasr argues that the US must pursue a diplomatic solution with Iran since military force has failed to achieve its goals.
How does Nasr describe Iran’s position in the war?
Nasr says Iran has not lost and therefore will not surrender, which means the US cannot expect capitulation through military action alone.