Iran Hardens Stance Despite US Pressure as Revolutionary Guards Tighten Control

Iran is intensifying its hardline position even as it faces mounting economic pressure from the United States and stalled diplomatic negotiations, according to Israeli security analysts. Rather than yielding to international pressure, Tehran’s leadership appears to be moving in the opposite direction, consolidating power within the military establishment and resisting compromise on key issues.

Professor Uzi Rabi, a leading expert on Middle Eastern affairs, argues that Iran’s Revolutionary Guards are effectively consolidating control over state affairs, marginalising moderate factions within the regime. This shift reflects a broader pattern in which Iran’s military and security apparatus has increasingly dominated decision-making, particularly on matters of national security and nuclear policy.

The hardening of Iran’s stance comes at a critical juncture, with diplomatic efforts between Iran and world powers reaching a stalemate. Simultaneously, the economic toll of American sanctions continues to weigh on the Iranian economy, yet the regime shows little sign of changing course. Analysts suggest this reflects the Revolutionary Guards’ growing influence over civilian government bodies.

Meanwhile, Gulf Arab states are beginning to question their reliance on American security guarantees, raising questions about the stability of the region’s security architecture. The erosion of confidence in US commitment to regional defence has prompted several Gulf nations to reassess their strategic positioning, potentially opening new dynamics in Middle Eastern geopolitics.

Source: Maariv — Original article in Hebrew.