US policy toward Iran is completely incoherent and without any
specific goals (beyond, seemingly, capitulation or war). As Christopher
J. Bolan writes at the link, "the
traditional measures essential to developing a successful deterrence
include clear and consistent communications of what specific behaviors
are acceptable and which actions will result in credible and punishing
reprisals. Unfortunately, the steps taken thus far by the Trump
administration have increased tensions with Iran and US allies alike,
weakened international resolve to pose a united front against Iran, and
do not present Iranian leaders with a viable path forward to avoid
confrontation with the US."
The Collapse of Deterrence with Iran
