Webinar: The Israel-Iran Crisis - Assessing Future Scenarios

Following a 12-day military confrontation between Israel and Iran, the Islamic Republic faces a critical inflection point. Its long-standing national defense doctrine—centered on regional alliances, missile deterrence, and nuclear ambiguity—has been significantly strained. How will Tehran respond to the setbacks in its regional posture, domestic cohesion, and international standing? On June 26, 2025, Wikistrat hosted a webinar with Dr. Sina Azodi, Program Director of Middle East Studies at George Washington University’s Elliott School, to assess Iran’s strategic outlook, internal dynamics, and post-conflict options.

[00:00:00] Introduction – Assessing Iran After the Ceasefire

[00:01:23] How the War Changed Iran’s National Security Doctrine

[00:06:57] What’s Left of Iran’s Defense Strategy?

[00:13:07] Why Iran Won’t Drop Its Nuclear Program

[00:21:30] Who Holds Power in Tehran Now: Diplomats or Hawks?

[00:25:27] Is Iran Becoming a Military Dictatorship?

[00:30:29] Public Sentiment Inside Iran After the War

[00:36:17] Will the Regime Become More Oppressive?

[00:39:58] What Does China Want from Iran?

[00:43:12] Why Not Just Keep a Civilian Nuclear Program?

[00:45:16] Iran’s Gulf Relations After the Conflict

[00:47:52] Will Iran Modernize Its Military – Especially the Air Force?

[00:50:56] Post-War Disillusionment with Russia

[00:53:45] Final Scenarios: Iran’s Strategic Future