The Islamic Republic knows it cannot overcome the military might of the US and Israel and has adopted a strategy of attrition. The regime spent much of the time since the 12-day war in June preparing for such a scenario and has decentralised decision-making structures. Israel continues to be targeted by sophisticated Iranian cluster missiles that send a spray of high explosives on to its cities. For Iran’s theocratic rulers, victory means surviving the war and retaining power, no matter the cost to the country. As the war enters its third week, the policy of attrition seems to be working.

Source: The Irish Times March 14, 2026 06:24 UTC