Khansaheeb
Elite Member
Iranian biggest mistake they were too isolationist and should have formed a greater alliance with China sooner. By the time they did it was too late. Like Pakistan they were too aloof to strengthen meaningful ties with their neighbors. They spooked the Arab Monarchs who felt threatened by export of Shia revolution and competed for influence rather than cooperation. This left Iran surrounded by a largely hostile neighborhood. Its only significant state allies have been Syria and, for a time, Iraq's Shia-led governments (which are still deeply influenced by Iran but also maintain ties with the US). Unlike the UAE, Qatar, or even Saudi Arabia, which have built complex networks of ties with all powers, Iran's regional isolation has made it more vulnerable to pressure and has drained its resources. Pakistan too has also often struggled with tense relations with all its neighbors except China.
Iran had the oil money but did not invest in the right weapons and were still flying old Phantoms and Tomcats. Russia and US have proved countries out of alliances are at a threat of regime change or destruction, Iran saw all the signs and failed to match military strength. Also they failed to crush the traitors and spies within who have been running amok ,spying and assassinating and tremendously damaged their national security. They have been unable to protect their Generals, Scientists , academics, Leaders and politicians and have misread their enemy who have no scruples or lines.
