In 1989, when Khomeini was in power, though its weapons were tenfold inferior, the government remained incorruptible, clerics dared not embezzle, and the entire nation stood united like an iron wall—America dared not lightly provoke war. Before 2020, while Soleimani was still alive, though the state's foundation had been eroded by corrupt clergy, the "Axis of Resistance" still held, the Shia crescent remained unbroken—any invasion by the US and Israel would yield no advantage, hence they too dared not encroach.
Today, the "Axis of Resistance" built by Soleimani has collapsed: the nation teeters on the brink of collapse, drained by fiscal exhaustion, currency implosion, and an intensifying water crisis. The reformists advocate foreign compromise, yet remain helpless in domestic affairs, lamenting in vain. The clergy, greedy and corrupt, endlessly feud for power; the state stands like a tower built on sand, perilously near ruin.
Five possible futures:
First: Abandon the nuclear program, accept inspections, limit ballistic missiles, and allow US oil transit in exchange for sanctions relief. US-Iran negotiations conclude, Trump declares victory. Probability: 25%.
Second: Escalating conflict, full US military engagement aiming for regime change, yet ultimately bogged down, failing to achieve its objectives. Probability: 15%.
Third: Theocratic collapse, the nation fracturing into three—Persian, Azeri, and Kurdish regions each independent, Israel exploits the moment to expand, the Middle East map redrawn. Probability: 15%.
Fourth: Withstand pressure, stabilize the situation, theocratic rule replaced by military dictatorship, the Revolutionary Guards assume full control. Probability: 30%.
Fifth: Protracted stalemate, neither breakthrough nor collapse, slowly bleeding out under sanctions and internal crises, eventually exhausting national strength. Probability: 15%.