NAVIGATING THE IRANIAN OPPOSITION
Peloni: Among the six principles discussed by Berman in this important analysis is the fact that Iran’s nuclear ambitions may not necessarily be extinguished with the rule of the Mullahs, presuming the Iranian opposition ever finds the means by which to solidify their overwhelming support to achieve such a happy undertaking. This should not be a terribly surprising conclusion, given the power and prestige which continuing to pursue inclusion into the nuclear power club, would afford to the governing body which might rise following the fall of the Mullahs, no matter which form that govt might actually take. Hence, the fears of a nuclear Iran should be seen to be both a contingent with and separate from the pursuit of ending the menacing Mullahs in Tehran.
A NATIONAL SECURITY BLUEPRINT FOR THE UNITED STATES
ILAN BERMAN | AFPC | OCTOBER 2024
Executive Summary
Nearly half a century after the Islamic Revolution of 1979, Iran stands at a critical juncture. Widespread popular disaffection, pronounced economic decline, dwindling religiosity, and pervasive societal malaise have coalesced into a volatile and potentially transformative political climate. The recent “woman, life, freedom” movement has highlighted a fundamental rejection of the Islamic Republic’s religious system of government on the part of many Iranians. And despite the regime’s current, dominant position, these underlying tensions persist, suggesting that Iran may face another cycle of anti-regime activity in the near future.
A pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel encampment at Rutgers University in New Jersey in April 2024. Photo by Faygie Holt.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a video message (Photo: Screenshot) 
