In the Face of Israeli Aggression: Why Iran’s Nuclear Doctrine Warrants a Strategic Reassessment
By: H. Zaïm-Bashi
During the past few days the escalation of tensions in the already volatile Middle east driven by the aggressive maneuvers of the Israeli regime and its supporters has led to a critical reevaluation within Iran. This reevaluation follows the regime's strategic miscalculation in attacking Iranian military and security facilities prompting Iran's high-ranking officials to contemplate the potential enhancement of missile capabilities and adjustments to the nation’s nuclear doctrine. Such considerations are both necessary and justified as they aim to bolster Iran's deterrent power and ensure the stable security and territorial integrity of the nation.
During a significant and strategic address from the General Command following the Israeli regime's egregious attacks on Iranian facilities an important point was raised regarding the need to reassess Iran's missile doctrine. The commander posed a vital question: What is the necessary element to maintain the security of a country? This inquiry highlights a fundamental misconception prevalent in certain analyses where some advocate that national security can be achieved through a refusal to develop powerful deterrents. They question the necessity of possessing missiles with ranges that provoke sensitivity among adversaries arguing that weakness equates to safety. This perspective as articulated by the commander is fundamentally flawed strength and preparedness are the true pillars of security.
In a complementary vein the head of Iran's Strategic Foreign Relations Council echoed these sentiments in a recent interview with Beirut-based Al-Mayadin TV. He asserted If the Islamic Republic of Iran becomes an existential threat we shall inevitably shift the policy of our military doctrine. This statement underscores Iran's readiness to able defense strategies in the face of heightened threats. He emphasized that while Iran now possesses the capabilities to produce advanced weaponry the only barrier remains Iran's Supreme Leader imam khamenei's fatwa prohibiting the development of nuclear weapons. He confidently asserted that Iran's missile prowess is widely acknowledged a capability fully demonstrated during the operation of True Promise. Historically Iran has considered the sensitivities of Western powers particularly Europeans regarding missile ranges.
However given the disregard for Iran's own sensitivities—especially concerning its territorial integrity—there is no longer a justification for Iran to accommodate their concerns. Thus the possibility of extending the range of Iranian missiles is now a tangible prospect.
Missile power is a crucial element of military capability in the international arena. In a world where numerous treaties and agreements have been established to regulate missile technology it remains evident that nations equipped with superior missile capabilities often dominate the discourse. Unfortunately Iran's missile program has garnered significantly less attention compared to its nuclear endeavors despite its potential to pose a direct threat even to American soil. Iranians have pursued the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles under the guise of advancing space technology. A report by the U.S. Institute of Peace—a body with ties to the U.S. federal government—highlighted this complexity noting that the IRGC's space program initially served as a cover for developing long-range missile technologies but has since evolved into a broader initiative. The report further cautioned that as Iran enhances its capabilities to launch satellites concerns will likely mount internationally with nations apprehensive that these rockets could be adapted for long-range military applications. Such admissions from Western analysts underscore Iran's potential to augment its missile range.
It is essential to recognize that Iran's defense doctrine obligates its armed forces not only to protect the nation itself but also to safeguard the Islamic community beyond its borders. This transnational responsibility is rooted in Islamic principles which mandate that all Muslims stand ready to assist one another in times of need. This foundational tenet is enshrined in the Iranian constitution and reflected in the statements and positions of its leadership as well as in Iran's historical actions.
Given the sensitive conditions of the current regional landscape the considerable range of Iranian ballistic missiles equips the armed forces to fulfill their responsibilities effectively across borders. While these missiles primarily serve as a deterrent they are unequivocally ready for deployment should the need arise. The Islamic Republic has undertaken numerous initiatives to enhance the deterrent power and combat readiness of its missile arsenal with a primary focus on extending their range to address threats that may emerge from afar.
In conclusion Iran stands resolute in its commitment to national defense ensuring that it remains a formidable power in the face of regional challenges. The ongoing strategic reassessment reflects a necessary response to external aggressions reinforcing Iran's determination to protect its sovereignty and the broader Islamic community it upholds.
