Christian Heitmann, a foreign policy editor at Postoj, analyzes the military context of the current tensions between the Western alliance, particularly the United States and Israel, and Iran. While he acknowledges the effectiveness of military operations targeting key Iranian regime structures and capabilities, he argues that these actions have not resulted in achieving significant strategic objectives. Furthermore, he raises concerns about the failure to adequately consider the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz in these military planning discussions, suggesting Europe should play a larger role in protecting maritime shipping routes in the region.

Heitmann delves into the complexity of Iran's internal power dynamics, highlighting that while the Iranian regime may appear monolithic externally, it consists of multiple layers and power structures. He questions the level of support the regime actually enjoys among ordinary Iranians, especially in the context of ongoing protests that have persisted since 2009. Despite facing external pressures and recurring demonstrations, the regime has shown remarkable resilience, which prompts an exploration of the factors that contribute to its stability.

The article also touches on the historical experience that suggests that external pressures can unite a nation, but Heitmann notes that modern-day Iran is markedly different from past instances. He concludes by emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of Iran's socio-political landscape, as well as the implications of ongoing military actions for both Iran and its adversaries in the West.