US can huff & puff, but without a political fix Iran won't come down

The latest U.S. strategy in the Middle East is defined as one of “maximum pressure,” combining military containment and economic sanctions in an attempt to compel Iran to accept a deal. But it lacks clearly defined, civilian-led outcomes, illustrating the persistent misalignment between military means and political ends.Military pressure can set conditions, signal resolve, and buy time for civilian action. It cannot determine political outcomes. When a civilian-led strategy rooted in clear end s

Source: Responsible Statecraft