The article by Jerzy Haszczyński in Rzeczpospolita examines the evolving tension between the United States and Iran during Donald Trump’s presidency. The author points out that military action against Iran had been hinted at by the Trump administration for weeks, indicating a willingness to respond to perceived threats. This reflects a deeper moral conflict within the West regarding intervention in authoritarian regimes, especially concerning the plight of oppressed citizens versus geopolitical interests.

Haszczyński scrutinizes the notion that Iran poses a direct threat to US national security, highlighting that the initial justification for military involvement seemed to lean on humanitarian grounds, particularly regarding the suppression of dissent in Iran. However, over time, the plight of Iranian dissidents became less of a priority for the US, which shifted focus back to Iran's nuclear and military capabilities as a rationale for war. This indicates a troubling trend where geopolitical strategy often overshadows humanitarian concerns.

The article also touches upon the implications of a potential regime change in Iran, suggesting that while there might be support for replacing the current leadership, it is uncertain who would fill the power vacuum. With speculation about a more pro-Western alternative, such as the son of the overthrown shah, Haszczyński raises important questions about the unintended consequences of US military intervention in the region and the complexities involved in dealing with authoritarian regimes.